11 US senate seats could change hands in midterm elections

Democrats are hoping to regain control of the US Senate in the November 3 midterm elections, while Republicans are fighting to retain their majority. Opinion polls suggest a close contest in several states, with 11 Senate seats emerging as potential battlegrounds.

According to CNN’s Poll of Polls on November 2, the outcome in these competitive races could play a decisive role in determining which party controls the Senate.

North Carolina has emerged as a key opportunity for Democrats. Former governor Roy Cooper is reportedly leading his Republican rival by 14 percentage points.

A Democratic victory would mark the party’s first Senate win in the state since 2008.

In Ohio, former Democratic senator Sherrod Brown is leading Republican candidate Jon Husted by five points. Campaign advertisements, costing more than $100 million, have focused on issues including data centres, the Epstein files and allegations of corruption.

Texas is also witnessing a closely watched contest. The state has recorded 7.7 million early votes, the highest in 32 years.

Democratic candidate James Talarico is leading in polls, with Latino and minority voters potentially playing an important role.

Democratic candidates are also gaining ground in Kansas and Iowa, where concerns over high fuel and fertiliser prices and President Donald Trump’s tariff policies have become significant campaign issues. Adam Hamilton in Kansas and Josh Turek in Iowa are reportedly building strong positions.

In Alaska, former Democratic congresswoman Mary Peltola is narrowly ahead of Republican Senator Dan Sullivan, despite confusion over two candidates sharing the same name.

In Michigan, the race has become more complicated following Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s political controversy. Despite divisions within the party, he remains ahead in some polls against Republican candidate Mike Rogers.

South Carolina, New Hampshire and Georgia are also drawing attention. In New Hampshire, Democratic candidate Chris Pappas is reportedly leading by 12 points, while Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is maintaining a strong campaign in Georgia.

The 11 competitive Senate races are expected to play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in Washington. Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority, and Democrats need a net gain of four seats to take control of the chamber.