The 2025 election results are in, with Democrats securing key victories in several high-profile races across the country — from New York to Virginia and New Jersey, offering a wave of momentum heading into the 2026 midterms, Northeastern University political scientists say. Other analysts caution, however, that while the victories — including Zohran Mamdani’s grassroots win in New York — signal energy within the party, the results may be more reflective of local dynamics than a clear national trend.
In perhaps the most-watched race, Mamdani clinched the mayoral race over former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. In New York, voter turnout for the mayoral race was the largest in decades. Another closely watched race was New Jersey’s gubernatorial contest, which saw former Navy helicopter pilot U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill overcome Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
And Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger secured the governor’s seat over Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, extending her party’s recent streak of statewide victories.California’s redistricting ballot measure, Proposition 50, also passed. The measure adopts a new congressional map that makes five districts more favorable to Democrats, potentially positioning the party to gain seats in the midterms.
