New polls show how Democrats have expanded Senate map

Key Points:

• New York Times/Siena polls reveal Democrats have a strong chance to pick up Senate seats in South Carolina and possibly Florida for the 2026 midterms, while GOP hopes in Minnesota appear diminished.
• In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews and GOP Sen. Darline Graham are tied at 48%, despite the state’s strong Republican lean, with Andrews viewed as more qualified by independents and some Republicans.
• Minnesota’s Democratic Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan leads Republican Michele Tafoya by 54%-40%, benefiting from a Democratic-leaning electorate and unfavorable views of Trump, though concerns about Flanagan’s left-leaning stance persist.
• Florida remains competitive with GOP Sen. Ashley Moody leading Democrat Angie Nixon by 6 points, but Nixon’s strong support among independents and a close governor’s race indicate potential Democratic opportunities despite the state’s recent Republican trend.
• These polls highlight expanding Democratic opportunities in traditionally Republican states, underscoring the importance of the 2026 Senate races in shaping the political landscape.