Democrats Secure House Control After Reaching 218 Seats

Democrats have secured at least 218 seats in the 435-member U.S. House, crossing the threshold for a majority and taking control as votes in the 2026 midterm election continue to be counted.

The count showed Republicans with 126 seats, while Democrats had flipped 25 seats held by the GOP. Those totals show that the majority threshold has been reached before the overall count is complete. Further results could change the size of the margin, but not the 218-seat threshold needed for control.

The shift gives Democrats control of House committees and greater authority to investigate and oversee the administration. It also raises an obstacle for parts of Trump's legislative agenda when House approval is required. The loss of the chamber ends Republican control of the House and changes the balance of power in Congress.

The House has 435 seats, and a party needs 218 to hold a majority. Vote counting is still underway, so the final seat margin has not been established.