Democrats aim to flip four Senate seats in 2026, targeting Ohio, North Carolina, Maine, and Alaska.

Senate Democrats see a slim but possible path to regaining control of the Senate in 2026, needing to win four seats in Republican-held states to overcome the GOP’s 53-47 majority. They gained momentum after former Rep. Mary Peltola announced her candidacy in Alaska, adding a high-profile contender in a key battleground. Democrats are focusing on competitive races in Ohio, North Carolina, Maine, and Alaska, recruiting experienced but older candidates like Sherrod Brown, Roy Cooper, and Janet Mills, though internal divisions and contentious primaries, including Mills’ challenge from progressive Graham Platner, pose risks. While a recent Gallup poll shows a slight shift in independent voter sentiment toward Democrats, Republicans remain skeptical, citing Trump’s 2024 victories in most target states. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasizes electability over age or ideology, stressing that winning is the top priority.