Based on history, House Republicans should have an edge in midterm elections. But Democrats have some cause for optimism.
Republicans are enthusiastic about their chances of taking over the U.S. House of Representatives in the midterm elections of 2022.
Currently, the Democrats hold just a 219-211 lead in the House, a margin that would be 222-213 if the five currently vacant seats remain with the same party after they’ve been filled in special elections this year. (In a June 1 special election, the Democrats held on to one more House seat, in New Mexico. Once the newly elected Melanie Stansbury is sworn in, the tally will be 220-211.)
By historical standards, the Democratic edge is small. Only twice since World War II has the majority party held fewer than 222 seats when it was at full strength – the Republicans with 221 seats from 1953 to 1955 and the same number from 2001 to 2003. Continue reading.