November 6, 2026 — Democrats’ sweeping victories in the United States midterm elections could have major ramifications on Congress’ approach to seafood and fisheries policy, though U.S. President Donald Trump will still play a substantial role in setting the agenda.
While results in some races are still being tabulated days after the election, Democrats have picked up seven seats in the U.S. Senate and 41 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives so far, giving them solid majorities and replacing Republican control across Congress. Republicans will still control Congress for several weeks, but it’s unlikely they will pass major legislation during the lame duck session. When incoming lawmakers are sworn in in January, Democrats will have an opportunity to reshape substantial policy bills like the fiscal year 2027 budget bills and the Farm Bill, while control of Congressional committees gives Democrats a stronger position to push back on Trump’s unilateral attempts to rewrite trade and environmental policy.