Payam Javan: Republicans were projected to gain another seat in the U.S. Senate on Thursday, solidifying their path to holding majorities in both chambers of Congress next year. The Associated Press called the Pennsylvania race for Republican Dave McCormick, who defeated incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey. This victory ensures Republicans will hold at least 53 of the 100 Senate seats in the upcoming term, enhancing their ability to influence legislative priorities and confirming judicial and executive appointments.

In the battle for the House of Representatives, Republicans were nearing a majority after flipping an additional seat. With 211 confirmed seats in their favor, they are only seven seats away from controlling the 435-seat chamber. Democrats face an uphill challenge, needing to win 19 of the 25 remaining uncalled races to maintain their majority. The final outcome for the House may take longer to confirm, particularly as 11 of the undecided races are in California, where ballot counting can extend over several days.

Should Republicans secure both the Senate and the House, they would have significant leverage in advancing President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda, including tax cuts and stricter immigration policies. However, they will still fall short of the 60 Senate votes required for most legislative actions, potentially limiting their legislative momentum. Meanwhile, tight Senate races in Nevada and Arizona remain critical, with Democrat incumbents narrowly leading as vote counting continues.