Republicans Discuss Strategies to Retain Congressional Majority in 2026 Midterms

NBC News spoke with roughly 30 Republican National Committee members and GOP activists about prospects for holding a congressional majority in the November 2026 elections. President Donald Trump is not on the ballot. Republicans have lost several elections in the past six months, and historical patterns show the party controlling the White House often loses seats in midterm elections.

Two recent court decisions improved Republican positions in redistricting, according to the interviews. The party has also raised more money than major Democratic groups. AK Kamara, the RNC national committeeman from Minnesota, said the rulings gave Republicans an advantage in seat retention.

The RNC has hired state directors and election observers and is recruiting poll watchers in 17 states. Officials said the focus includes low- and mid-propensity voters who supported Trump in 2024. Joseph Wood, chair of the Arkansas Republican Party, said the midterms will hinge on delivering results for voters.

Jason Simmons, chair of the North Carolina Republican Party, pointed to the Working Families Tax Cut as a key message. Republican officials said the economy and gas prices remain top concerns. Jim Runestad, Michigan GOP chairman, noted that the no-tax-on-overtime provision has been popular in his state.

Trump said in a phone interview that passage of the SAVE America Act would help Republican chances. The bill remains stalled in the Senate.