Democrats see Senate opening as Trump’s approval sags

NEW YORK (MNTV) – U.S. President Donald Trump and Republicans are facing mounting political headwinds ahead of the 2026 midterms, as low approval ratings, rising living costs, an unpopular U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and persistent controversies fuel voter discontent. 

Democrats are increasingly optimistic about winning control of Congress, though uncertainty over polling accuracy and Republican financial advantages complicate their path to a Senate majority.

Trump’s approval stands at about 39%, with 59% disapproving, according to the Decision Desk HQ polling average. Democrats are strongly positioned to reclaim the House, which the platform gives them an 80% chance of winning, and their Senate prospects have improved to a 58% probability of a majority.

Several races show the shift. 

South Carolina’s Senate contest has tightened to near a tie, despite Trump carrying the state by almost 18 points in 2024; Democrat James Talarico leads Republican Ken Paxton in Texas; former North Carolina governor Roy Cooper is well positioned; and in Ohio, former senator Sherrod Brown holds a narrow edge over Republican Jon Husted.

Gains are far from guaranteed. Republican advertising is outpacing Democratic spending in six of the seven Senate races The New York Times classifies as toss-ups, and vulnerable Democratic seats in states such as Michigan and Maine could complicate the party’s path. 

Democratic strategists argue Republicans are leaning on personal attacks and ideological labels rather than addressing economic concerns, and contend frustration over living costs and the war on Iran could depress Republican turnout.