Following a narrow victory in the House, Republicans are optimistic about their chances in the 2026 midterm elections. Rep. Richard Hudson, chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), believes the current political landscape favors the GOP. He points to the fact that 14 Democrats hold seats in districts won by President-elect Trump, while only three Republicans represent districts carried by Vice President Harris. This disparity, Hudson argues, puts Republicans in a strong offensive position.

Although Republicans maintained their House majority, the Democrats made gains, resulting in a slim 220-215 GOP advantage. Historically, the party in power tends to lose seats in midterm elections. However, Hudson sees Trump's presidential win and the GOP's success in key battleground states as advantageous for the upcoming midterms. He believes this will provide a “home-field advantage” for Republican candidates.

In contrast to the 2018 midterms, where Democrats targeted and flipped numerous Republican-held seats in districts Trump lost in 2016, the situation is reversed. Republicans now find themselves defending seats in districts that Trump won. Hudson believes this shift, combined with the experience of incumbent Republicans who have weathered tough election cycles, gives the GOP a significant edge.

While acknowledging the benefit of having Trump on the ballot to mobilize voters, Hudson is confident that if Republicans deliver on their promises and Trump campaigns for their candidates, they can achieve higher voter turnout than in past midterms. He emphasized Trump's commitment to maintaining a Republican House majority, recognizing that a Democratic House could obstruct his agenda.

Meanwhile, Rep. Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), is determined to reclaim the House majority lost in 2022. She aims to build on the Democrats’ 2024 successes by supporting strong, independent candidates focused on local needs, providing them with the resources to connect with voters, and holding Republicans accountable for their actions. DelBene believes that if Republicans fail to address the concerns of working families and govern in a bipartisan manner, it will impact the 2026 elections. She emphasizes the DCCC’s role in ensuring voters receive accurate information about Democratic candidates and their positions.