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California Races Key in Senate Control
· Confirmed
In Short: California's Senate and House races could determine control of the US Senate and House.
In California, several Senate and House races are closely watched as they could determine control of the US Senate and House.
NBC News reported that Democrat David Cooper's victory in a key Senate race secures a crucial flip for Democrats, who are aiming to take control of the Senate.
CalMatters noted that a handful of California races feature progressive challengers seeking to oust longtime incumbents, potentially pushing the Democratic Party to the left.
NBC News also reported that a top Republican super PAC canceled its ad spending in the race to focus more on protecting seats in more conservative territory as Cooper built a solid lead in the polls.
The Tufts Daily reported that polls show Democrats leading their Republican opponents in several key races that may determine control of the Senate.
USA Today noted that the race is being closely watched nationally as it could determine control of the Senate, which is narrowly held by Republicans, 53-47.
Chicagotribune reported that the race is among a handful of Senate contests this year expected to determine control of the chamber.
CalMatters highlighted that several California congressional races are expected to be close, as counties tabulate ballots received up to seven days after Election Day.
NBC News quoted Trump at an October rally in the state, saying, 'He’s going to become your senator,' but in the closing weeks of the campaign, a top Republican super PAC canceled its ad spending in the race.
Haley Stevens, D-Mich., endorsed Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers on Sunday, a major shake-up in the final stages of a top battleground race that could determine which party controls the Senate.
The race in Michigan is among several key races that could determine control of the Senate.
Major television news organizations have announced their plans for extensive coverage of the November 3 midterm elections, with broadcasters and streaming platforms planning hours of live reporting, election analysis and interactive features as voters determine control of Congress.
What this adds
The races in California and other states are crucial for determining control of both the Senate and the House.
The Democratic Party faces challenges from progressive challengers and Republican incumbents in several key races.
The outcome of these races could significantly impact the direction of the Democratic Party and the balance of power in Congress.
Background
In the 2026 Senate races, several candidates are outperforming their poll numbers, including Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan and Maine's Susan Collins.
ABC News rates 14 races as Tossup, with outcomes expected to be crucial for determining the balance of power in the House for the 120th Congress.
What's confirmed
- Republicans currently control the Senate with a 53–47 majority.
What's still developing
- The race was initially expected to be one of the most hotly contested across the Senate landscape.
- North Carolina became the first state on Friday authorised to begin sending out ballots, formally launching an election season that culminates on November 3 and will determine control of Congress for the final two years of Trump's term.