Election poll shifts Alaska and South Carolina Senate races to Democrats

Emily HallasOctober 6, 2026

Several key Senate races are shifting in favor of the Democrats, indicating a challenging path ahead for Republicans too retain control of Congress. according to Sabato’s Crystal Ball ratings, the Alaska race, were Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) is competing against democrat Mary Peltola, has moved from a “Toss-up” to “Leans Democrat.” Additionally, the South carolina race, featuring Republican Senator Lindsey Graham versus Democrat Annie Andrews, has changed from “Safe Republican” to “Leans Republican.” These adjustments follow recent shifts in other battleground races, boosting Democratic prospects in states like Michigan and Iowa. The article also includes promotional content encouraging readers to subscribe to the Washington Examiner for full access to news, analysis, and exclusive journalism.

Two more Senate races shifted toward Democrats, according to Sabato’s Crystal Ball ratings published Tuesday, signaling Republicans’ uphill battle in maintaining power in Washington.

The Alaska race, where Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) faces a challenge from Democrat Mary Peltola, moved from “Toss-up” to “Leans Democrat.” The South Carolina race, which features Republican Darline Graham Nordone against Democratic candidate Annie Andrews, moved from “Safe Republican” to “Leans Republican,” according to the University of Virginia Center for Politics election forecaster. The development follows the forecaster’s move to shift several other battleground races in Democrats’ favor, boosting Abdul el Sayed’s chances in Michigan and Josh Turek in Iowa.