Tim Walz Doubts Democrats Can Retake Senate in 2026, Cites Party Struggles

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz isn’t sugarcoating his outlook for Democrats’ chances in the Senate come 2026. Speaking at Harvard University's Kennedy School Institute of Politics, Walz admitted he’s "very pessimistic" about the Senate, while feeling bullish about the House. "I think we will take back the House," he said, with a confidence that almost makes you wish the Senate was just a little more cooperative. But when it comes to the upper chamber, Walz didn’t mince words: "With the way things work, I think it’s a very difficult look."

Walz linked his gloomy prediction to the overall unpopularity of the national Democratic Party. He argued that state-level candidates are fighting an uphill battle just by association, saying, "The thing was, is being associated with national parties and things on these state races, we’re going to have to figure that piece out, how do we reimagine." Rebranding a whole party—no pressure, right?

Despite the Senate blues, Walz suggested that President Donald Trump's first 100 days in office have—paradoxically—given Democrats some momentum. "I think there’s a lot of wind at our back, but it’s been 100 days of destruction," Walz said. "You think we can survive 550 more? That’s the real challenge. That’s how long it is ‘til the midterm." Someone get this man a countdown clock—preferably one that doesn’t just count down to more doom and gloom.

Meanwhile, the White House is busy celebrating Trump's early accomplishments. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and Border Czar Tom Homan announced a 96% drop in border crossings, and even decorated the White House lawn with mug shots of recently arrested illegal immigrants. If that’s not a statement piece, I don’t know what is. Later, Leavitt is set to appear with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to showcase the administration’s economic priorities.

With both parties digging in for a long slog to the midterms, it looks like optimism is in short supply—at least in the Senate.