With the ballots counted and a handful of races still under a recount, the 2026 midterm election saw record turnout across the country. Midterm elections often serve as a check on whomever is President and their political party, and initial exit polls suggest that was true for this cycle.   

Prior to this election, Republicans held a trifecta control of our federal government. When Congress convenes in January, Democrats will retake the majority of the U.S. House of Representatives by a margin of 222 to 138. They will also take the U.S. Senate, with a narrow margin of 52 to 44, and two Independents.  

Along with expected leadership and committee changes, a Democratic-led Congress will also result in a shift in priorities: offering a stronger check on the President, potentially mitigating state Medicaid cuts associated with HR 1, and re-igniting potential for immigration reform. We can also expect renewed interest in home and community-based services, additional calls for transparency in financial ownership transactions, as previewed by Senator Ron Wyden's (D-OR) RFI on home care services. 

How Wisconsin’s Key Races Fared 

• Governor: David Crowley (D) prevailed over Tom Tiffany (R) in the open gubernatorial race.  
• Wisconsin Legislature: For the first time in 16 years, Wisconsin will also have a Democratic trifecta with Democrats flipping three Republican seats in the state Senate, and eight Republican seats in the Assembly.  

This political change will likely correlate with a shift in labor and health care policy priorities. While some issues—like expanding training access for certified nurse aides—will find an easier path, others—like increasing Medicaid rates for care centers—may face an uphill climb. 

Content provided by LeadingAge Minnesota.