The midterm elections resulted in major victories for the Democratic Party, as they flipped both the House and Senate to assume majorities in both chambers for the 120th Congress that begins in January. In the House, Democrats have won 242 seats so far, a majority that is expected to widen, with some estimates placing them beyond 250 seats – which would be the largest majority since 2008. In the Senate, Democrats have won seven seats previously held by Republicans, for a minimum total of 54 seats, while races in Alaska and Mississippi are still too close to call.  

As for what this means for federal education and workforce policy, there will be changes next Congress in leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, the House Education and Workforce Committee and the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. These leadership changes will not take effect until 2027, once the 120th Congress commences. Read our analysis of the potential changes here.   

Under the new Congress, there will also be agenda changes and a reshuffling of policy priorities, with potential implications for the Department of Education (ED) and Department of Labor (DOL). For example, Congressional Democrats have pledged to prevent the transfer of programs from ED to other agencies. Top of mind for many education advocates is also federal funding and the FY 2027 appropriations process that has stalled amidst election season. As we prepare for the 120th Congress, it will be important to communicate the importance of sustained federal investment in Perkins and identify opportunities to advance bipartisan CTE legislation to new Congressional offices.  

Make sure to join us on November 12 at 3:00 PM EST to get a more in-depth analysis of the election results and what they mean for education and workforce policy. Register here.