The GOP’s worst defeat may be its best chance to move on

The 2026 midterms did more than punish Republicans. They rearranged the political fortunes of presidential hopefuls in both parties — and created some unexpected winners and losers, some with consequences for 2028.

Some changes were obvious on election night. Others became apparent only as the shock waves spread.

The sting is sharp, but the Band-Aid is off.

Losers

Start with Republicans. They entered November 3 holding the White House and both chambers of Congress, only to suffer a defeat that will shape their next two years and perhaps much longer.

The biggest loser, undoubtedly, was President Donald Trump. Midterms are almost invariably referendums on the president, with his party in Congress receiving the verdict. A Republican setback was expected. Its scale was not. The defeat will hamper Trump’s final two