Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is already making bold claims about the 2026 midterm elections—and her confidence is turning heads across Washington.
During a Sunday interview on ABC News’ This Week, Pelosi declared that Democrats reclaiming the House of Representatives is not a possibility, but an inevitability.
Host Jonathan Karl cautiously framed the scenario by saying, “So if the Democrats win the House back—”
Pelosi immediately interrupted.
“No, no—when,” she said. “When the Democrats win the House back.”
The remark quickly caught attention, especially among voters who see Pelosi as a symbol of Washington’s entrenched political class. Though no longer Speaker, Pelosi remains a powerful figure within the Democratic Party and continues to influence its strategy and leadership.
Pelosi Signals Who Would Take Power
Pelosi also used the interview to publicly endorse House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York as the next Speaker if Democrats regain control.
She praised Jeffries as polished, articulate, and capable of uniting Democrats—an endorsement that signals the party is already planning its next move well ahead of Election Day.
“He’s respected by the members,” Pelosi said, describing Jeffries as ready to lead.
House Control Could Come Down to Just a Few Seats
At present, Democrats would need to flip only three House seats to secure a majority. Political analysts say the 2026 map could be competitive, with several districts expected to be closely contested.
According to recent forecasts, 17 House races are currently classified as true toss-ups, with Republicans holding the majority of those seats. Meanwhile, Democratic campaign leaders are reportedly targeting dozens of GOP-held districts they believe could be vulnerable.
Democrats Betting on Economic Frustration
Democratic optimism has grown following off-year election wins in states such as New Jersey, Virginia, and New York City. In those races, candidates focused heavily on everyday economic concerns like rising prices and household costs.
Inflation has cooled slightly this year, but it remains above the Federal Reserve’s target level. Many Americans—especially retirees and those on fixed incomes—continue to feel financial pressure from higher prices, higher interest rates, and uncertainty about the economy.
President Donald Trump has also faced criticism over economic conditions, including from some voters within his own base. Democrats appear to believe that lingering economic unease could help them regain ground in 2026.
Pelosi Warns of a Power Shift
If Democrats do retake the House, Pelosi made clear that her party would move quickly to challenge President Trump’s agenda.
She emphasized Congress’s control over government spending, arguing that Republicans have failed to act independently.
“We have the power of the purse,” Pelosi said, claiming that congressional Republicans have simply followed the president’s demands rather than asserting legislative authority.
According to Pelosi, that would change immediately under Democratic leadership.
“That will be over,” she said.
Why Pelosi’s Comments Matter
Pelosi’s remarks offer a clear preview of what Democrats are planning if they regain power: increased resistance to President Trump, renewed investigations, and aggressive use of congressional authority.
For voters heading into 2026, the stakes are already becoming clear—control of the House could determine whether Trump’s agenda advances or faces constant opposition.
And if Pelosi is right, Democrats are preparing for that fight now.
