Archived national briefing
Officeholders, developments and scheduled events as reported on this date.
Democrats won control of both chambers in the midterms, according to the Associated Press. Republicans hold the White House and both chambers of the sitting Congress.
Who held power
Incoming Congress
120th Congress · Terms begin Jan 3, 2027. Chamber control reflects AP race calls.
- Senate
- Democratic majority called by AP
- Democratic
- House
- Democratic majority called by AP
- Democratic
What changed
Nov 6–12, 2026-
ICE reports a record for deportations
The agency says it deported 483,200 people in the fiscal year ending Sept 30.
Why it matters
Incoming Democratic lawmakers have signaled that immigration enforcement will be an oversight priority.
Associated Press ↗ -
The size of the new majorities was still uncertain
One week after Election Day, AP reported that more than a dozen key races remained too early to call.
Why it matters
In a narrow majority, a small group of lawmakers can have more leverage over votes on bills and leadership.
Associated Press ↗ -
House blocks impeachment effort
The House voted 211–204 to send the resolution to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth back to committee.
Why it matters
The vote stalled the effort in the current House. The incoming majority can decide whether to take up the issue in January.
Associated Press ↗
What was on the calendar
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Senate takes up judicial nominations
The floor schedule includes a vote to advance an Alaska federal district court nomination.
Senate floor schedule ↗ -
Supreme Court hears Arizona voter registration case
The dispute covers proof of citizenship and when states can remove registrations before a federal election.
Supreme Court docket ↗ -
New congressional terms begin
The next terms for newly elected representatives and senators begin at noon Eastern under the 20th Amendment.
National Archives ↗