Trump's Influence Reshapes Senate Landscape Across Four States

Republicans are favored to retain control of the Senate in 2026 due to a favorable map, but internal party disputes and controversial candidates are creating unexpected challenges. Key GOP governors like Brian Kemp in Georgia and Chris Sununu in New Hampshire have declined to run, leading to concerns that less broadly appealing, MAGA-aligned candidates could endanger winnable seats. Primary battles, particularly in Texas where Attorney General Ken Paxton is challenging Sen. John Cornyn, threaten to divide the party and complicate campaign strategies. Louisiana, North Carolina, and Michigan are seeing similar tensions, with MAGA figures threatening to unseat incumbents or spark costly primaries. Meanwhile, Democrats face a daunting map with limited opportunities, as most GOP-held seats up for election are in states Trump won handily, forcing them to recruit aggressively in traditionally red states. Despite these obstacles, both parties are maneuvering intensely, with the GOP wary of self-inflicted wounds and Democrats hoping to exploit Republican divisions.