Summary
Democrats have gained their largest lead over Republicans in the run-up to the 2026 midterm elections, according to a new Emerson College poll. The poll shows Democrats with an 8-point lead over Republicans, which could influence control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Key Facts
- Democrats lead Republicans by 8 points in the Emerson College poll for the 2026 midterm elections.
- The poll was conducted with 1,000 voters from February 21-22, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.
- Democrats' lead has grown from previous months, when they had a 6-point lead in January and a 2-point lead in December.
- In recent U.S. midterm elections, the president’s party often loses seats in Congress.
- President Trump’s approval rating is currently at a net -12 points, per the same poll.
- Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the House with 218 seats, while Democrats have 214, with three seats vacant.
- Democrats need to gain a few seats to obtain a majority in the House.
- Certain House seats held by both parties are seen as competitive and could influence control of the chamber.
