2026 midterm elections - three key races to watch

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - With Election Day hours away and control of Congress at stake, political experts are watching Senate races in key states.

Texas

Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton is facing Democratic state Rep. James Talarico.

An endorsement from President Donald Trump helped Paxton earn the nomination over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. However, Paxton’s political baggage has loomed large over the campaign.

The Republican-controlled Texas House impeached Paxton over corruption allegations. He was later acquitted.

Meanwhile, a Talarico victory would give Texas its first Democratic U.S. senator in more than 30 years.

Michigan

Democrat Abdul El-Sayed, a public health administrator, is facing Republican Rep. Mike Rogers for an open Senate seat.

El-Sayed’s Muslim faith has become a flashpoint in the race. Trump has accused El-Sayed of extremist ties without evidence. El-Sayed has denied the claims and said his allegiance is to the U.S. Constitution.

Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), who challenged El-Sayed in the primary, withdrew her support for him Sunday and endorsed Rogers.

Ohio

Republican Sen. Jon Husted is facing former Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown.

Husted was appointed to replace J.D. Vance when Vance became vice president.

Brown is attempting a political comeback after losing his reelection bid in 2024 to Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno. The winner of the race will serve the remaining two years of Vance’s term.