Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi has confidently predicted that the Democratic Party will reclaim control of the House of Representatives in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. During an interview on ABC News with anchor Jonathan Karl, Pelosi expressed her belief that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries will become Speaker, succeeding current Republican Speaker Mike Johnson.
In her remarks, Pelosi stated that she has “none” of the doubts regarding the Democrats’ ability to regain the House. She emphasized that Jeffries is well-prepared to lead the party if their efforts prove successful. Currently, Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House, possessing 220 seats compared to the Democrats’ 215.
Polling data appears to support Pelosi’s optimistic outlook. Recent surveys indicate that Democratic candidates enjoy a modest advantage over their Republican counterparts as President Donald Trump enters the final year of his second term. Notably, a November Gallup poll recorded Trump’s approval rating at a lowly 36%, with a disapproval rating of 60%. This context, alongside the announcement that several Republicans, including former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, will not seek re-election, adds weight to her prediction.
Criticism of Current Congressional Leadership
During the interview, Pelosi was critical of the current Republican-led Congress, suggesting that it has relinquished too much authority to Trump. “Right now, the Republicans in the Congress have abolished the Congress. They just do what the president insists that they do,” she remarked. Pelosi asserted that a Democratic majority would restore legislative independence and oversight.
Pelosi, who stepped down from House leadership in 2022, recently announced that she will not seek re-election as a Representative from California. She intends to retire at the end of her current term in early 2027. When asked about the potential for a third impeachment of Trump, she expressed skepticism, stating, “The one person who was responsible for the impeachments of Donald Trump is Donald Trump.” She emphasized that impeachment hinges on specific constitutional violations rather than a premeditated decision.
Pelosi’s predictions and critiques reflect a broader narrative within the Democratic Party as they prepare for the rigorous campaign environment of the next election cycle. As polling continues to fluctuate and political dynamics evolve, her statements echo the sentiments of many Democrats eager to regain influence in Congress.
