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What will Democrats do with their midterm mandate?

08:53

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Aaron Tilton
November 8, 2026

A blue wave swept across the US in the midterm elections, as Democrats scored historic wins in previously Republican strongholds. But can the party keep its momentum going until 2028?

The US midterm elections delivered sweeping gains for Democrats, shifting the balance of power in Washington and raising questions about the future of both major parties.

Experts say strong turnout among young voters, Black voters and Latinos helped fuel Democratic victories, while concerns over rising living costs, the war in Iran and immigration policy weighed on Republicans.

With Democrats now in control of Congress, the focus turns to economic relief, government oversight and whether the party can turn its midterm success into lasting political support ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

DW's Aaron Tilton spoke with Andrew Rudalevige from Bowdoin College and Colin Seeberger from the Center for American Progress to break this down.

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