Democrats face January agenda and internal clash ahead of congressional takeover

Nov 13, 2026 11:04 (15h ago)

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Democrats are preparing January legislation on stock trading, Medicaid, healthcare subsidies and the Iran war as moderates and progressives debate the party's direction.
Democrats are projected to hold at least 255 House seats and 55 Senate seats, with 12 House races and one Alaska Senate seat unresolved.
Most Senate legislation requires 60 votes, although Democrats could seek Republican support or use a procedure permitting passage with 51 votes.

Democrats poised to take control of Congress in January are preparing an agenda that includes banning congressional stock trading, ending President Donald Trump's war on Iran, reversing Republican Medicaid cuts and restoring healthcare subsidies, while an internal fight over the party's direction is intensifying. At a Denver gathering after the November 3 elections, about 10 protesters heckled incoming House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries over living costs and demanded progressive leadership, government-funded healthcare for all and an arms embargo on Israel. Chris Van Hollen is challenging Chuck Schumer for Senate Democratic leadership. Democrats are projected to hold at least 255 House seats to Republicans' 169, with 12 contests undecided, and at least 55 Senate seats to Republicans' 44, potentially gaining one Alaska seat. Most Senate legislation requires 60 votes, meaning Democrats would need Republican support or could use a procedure allowing passage with 51 votes.