With Election Day now more than a week behind us, the race for the U.S. House of Representatives remains undecided in several key districts as votes continue to be counted. Despite the outstanding results, Republicans are projected to hold onto their majority in the House, setting up a GOP-controlled government with the Senate already flipped in their favor and Donald Trump’s return to the presidency confirmed. The narrow margin in the House, however, indicates a potentially challenging road ahead for Republicans as they aim to navigate internal divisions and set their legislative agenda.
House Control in GOP Hands, But Key Races Still Open
The GOP’s projected control of the House comes as no surprise, following a strong performance in battleground states. However, many races remain too close to call, especially in states like California, where mail-in ballots are still being counted. Republicans currently hold leads in several undecided districts, but Democrats are hoping for late shifts as more votes come in. California alone accounts for multiple races that are still unresolved, including tight contests in the 9th, 13th, and 21st districts. Freshman GOP Rep. John Duarte leads narrowly, while veteran Democrat Jim Costa is clinging to a slim advantage in his race.
Alaska and Maine Races May See Ranked-Choice Runoffs
In Alaska’s at-large district, Republican Nick Begich is ahead of Democratic incumbent Mary Peltola. The race could go to a ranked-choice voting runoff if no candidate secures a majority of the first-choice votes, a process also expected in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District. Maine Democrat Jared Golden is currently leading but may face a runoff as neither candidate achieved a clear majority. These potential runoffs could extend the timeline for determining final results.
Surprise Upsets and Key Flips Across the Country
Some unexpected flips have already been reported. In Colorado, Republican Gabe Evans ousted incumbent Democrat Yadira Caraveo in a surprising upset. Democrats managed a flip of their own in Louisiana, where Cleo Fields secured a win in a traditionally GOP-held district. These gains, though significant, have not been enough to alter the overall balance of power as Republicans continue to edge toward a narrow but decisive majority in the House.
Republican Leadership Assembles, Faces Internal Challenges
As the results trickle in, House Republicans have wasted no time moving forward with leadership elections. Speaker Mike Johnson, who secured his position after a turbulent process earlier this year, looks set to maintain his role. However, internal rifts remain, especially as the GOP’s narrow majority could mirror the current difficulties of Congress. Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise are expected to face the task of uniting their caucus quickly, with legislative priorities including extending Trump-era tax cuts and tightening border security.
Democrats Eye 2026 Midterms as Republicans Look to Solidify Control
With Republicans holding both the House and Senate, alongside the presidency, they have a rare opportunity to push through key parts of their agenda. However, their razor-thin majority in the House means that they will likely face significant hurdles from within their ranks. Democrats are already gearing up for a strong push in the 2026 midterms, looking to capitalize on any GOP missteps. Historically, the party that controls the White House often struggles in midterm elections, giving Democrats hope for a comeback.
