
Can Donald Trump continue to rule with a Republican Senate majority - or will the Democrats slow him down? Everything depends on these duels in twelve states.
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The US congressional elections determine the composition of the Senate and thus influence the legislative power of the president.
Congressional elections in the USA: These duels decide about power in the Senate
Can Donald Trump continue to rule with a Republican Senate majority - or will the Democrats slow him down? Everything depends on these duels in twelve states.
By Claus Hecking and Theresa Eingartner, Boston and Hamburg
November 3rd, 2026, 1:32 p.m

There are significant differences in the black-red coalition over tax increases. While the plastic tax is about to end due to resistance from the Union, the sugar and crypto taxes are considered likely, despite ongoing negotiations.

The SPD district of Hanover has received two new applications for party sanctions against Gerhard Schröder. The arbitration commission is now examining the formal validity of the applications, which once again focus on Schröder's ongoing closeness to Vladimir Putin.
The CSU state group rejects planned tax increases such as the plastic tax and is calling for shifts in alcohol and sugar taxes. The Union is also pushing for savings in the social sector and points to falling refugee numbers during budget discussions.
Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt defends his controversial choice of words regarding riots during youth protests. At the GdP federal congress he emphasized the need to protect police forces, while GdP leader Kopelke criticized the origin debate as unhelpful.

Former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder is once again threatened with party regulation proceedings in the SPD. The reason is a visit to Vladimir Putin on his birthday. The SPD district of Hanover is currently checking the formal validity of the applications received.

The midterms are taking place in the USA today. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and a third of the Senate will be elected. The election is seen as a test of sentiment for President Donald Trump, while issues such as inflation and US foreign policy are affecting voters.