In the last elections in the United States, Latinos—the fastest-growing voting bloc in the country—have proven to be the most undecided, tipping the balance either for Democrats or Republicans, which will pose a challenge in the elections midterms of 2026.

“Latino voters are increasingly looking for leadership that reflects their lived experiences and directly addresses the challenges affecting their communities, from immigration and economic insecurity to access to healthcare and education,” said the organization Voto Latino, after being consulted about the 2026 projections. “As a result, Latinos are becoming a true swing vote: more persuasive than ever and willing to support candidates who earn their trust through meaningful participation and action.”

While in 2020, the Latino vote helped President Joe Biden win with more than 60% of Latino voters in his favor, in 2024 the balance did not tip completely in favor of President Donald Trump, with more than 40% of the Latino vote, but it marked the trend of these voters remaining undecided.

Congressional Renewal

The House of Representatives will be up for renewal on November 3, 2026, along with 33 Senate seats, including five of the six non-voting members.

It is noteworthy that eight senators and 38 representatives will not be running for reelection in 2026.

Currently, Republicans control both houses of Congress: a 53-45 majority in the Senate, but Democrats have two independents attached to their caucus, bringing their total to 47 votes.

In the House of Representatives, Republicans hold a majority of 219 seats to 213, with three vacancies.

Historically, the Brookings Institution reports, the incumbent president loses ground in Congress, as has been the case in 20 of the last 22 elections. One exception was in 2001, when George W. Bush's approval rating soared to 63% after the 9/11 attacks.

By 2026, Democrats need to gain four seats to secure a majority in the Senate, but Republicans cannot afford to lose more than two seats to maintain their majority.

President Trump's popularity will play a crucial role, as it has in other elections, the Brookings analysis indicates.

As for the House, Democrats need to win three districts to gain a majority, and Republicans cannot afford to lose more than two districts if they want to retain their majority.

“Republicans will find it much harder to defend their narrow majority in the House of Representatives, as both history and current political realities are stacked against them,” Brookings notes. Other issues of national impact: The economy will be a key element on the national political stage, including rising prices, inflation, and the cost of health insurance, after more than 20 million people faced high costs following the failure of subsidies in Congress. “The country must confront a growing economic crisis that is affecting families in every corner of the United States, and hitting Black and Latino communities especially hard,” Voto Latino stated. “The rising costs of housing, healthcare, food, and childcare are outpacing wages, leaving millions struggling to meet their basic needs.”

Data reveals that 39% of Latinos and 38% of African American adults report skipping meals, while 43% of African Americans report having skipped or fallen behind on a bill.

Debt has become another overwhelming burden, with 64% of African Americans and 55% of Latinos carrying more than $5,000 in non-mortgage debt, hindering stability and the ability to save for the future.

“This economic pressure is transforming not only household budgets but also civic engagement,” notes Voto Latino. “People are starting to feel that the system isn’t working for them, which is fueling frustration and disaffection, and this will have profound implications for the 2026 elections and beyond.”While 43% of African Americans report having missed or fallen behind on a bill payment.

Debt has become another overwhelming burden, with 64% of African Americans and 55% of Latinos carrying more than $5,000 in non-mortgage debt, hindering stability and saving for the future.

“This economic pressure is transforming not only household budgets but also civic engagement,” notes Voto Latino. “People are beginning to feel that the system isn’t working for them, which is fueling frustration and disengagement, and will have profound implications for the 2026 elections and beyond.”