Congress control up for grabs: the election math Democrats and Republicans face

House majority within reach

Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans start with a 220-215 advantage over Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Two House seats are vacant after the April resignations of former Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales and former Florida Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.

Cherfilus-McCormick sought to return but lost an August primary. Democrats need a net gain of three seats, bringing their total to at least 218, to win a simple majority and give Jeffries a chance to become speaker.

Democrats make their case

Democrats are targeting traditionally Republican areas as they try to gain seats. Jeffries, a Brooklyn Democrat, has emphasized affordability and anticorruption while criticizing Trump. Jeffries said the public is “fed up” and told reporters he believes Democrats are “on track” to win the House majority. He is seeking to become the first Black speaker in U.S. history.

Senate requires bigger gains

Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Republicans hold a 53-45 advantage over Senate Democrats. Two independents caucus with Democrats, putting the current minority at 47 seats. To take the Senate majority, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democrats need a net gain of four seats.