Thune weighs nightmare scenario for GOP as Democrats threaten to flip House

Democrats appear poised to win back the House in the midterms, according to election forecasters, and that prospect raises a question about how Congress would function for the rest of President Donald Trump's term. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, would have to deal with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, who has headed his party's caucus in that chamber since 2023 and is expected to become Speaker. Jeffries' office did not answer Fox News Digital when asked if he could work with Thune.

Speaking to Fox News Digital while campaigning in Nebraska, Thune said a split Congress would change the incentives for getting legislation done, but he declined to assume it would happen. He said he believes Republicans have a strong chance of keeping both chambers once voters weigh their options.

Forecasters give the GOP better odds in the Senate, though the Cook Political Report lists seven races as toss-ups. The House picture is cloudier for Republicans, who have controlled it since 2022 and face dozens of competitive seats that have moved toward Democrats. Trump's approval ratings have fallen to historic lows, and ongoing economic strain could also help Democrats.

Summarized by PolitiKool from Fox News’s reporting. Read the full story at Fox News →