For the first time this election cycle, Fox News's power rankings predict that Democrats are likely to gain control of the Republican-held House of Representatives in the upcoming midterm elections. This prediction comes as the midterm elections approach this fall.
According to the analysis by Fox News contributor Rémy Numa, Democrats are favored to win at least 219 House seats, securing a narrow majority, while Republicans are expected to hold at least 198 seats. Approximately 18 seats are currently considered toss-ups.
Numa cited several factors contributing to this forecast, including improvements in Democratic candidate quality and a Republican redistricting effort that may not meet expectations. He also pointed to the declining approval ratings of former President Donald Trump as a significant influence.
Rising prices for gas, diesel, and groceries have also contributed to a shift in sentiment among some rural voters away from the Republican Party, according to the analysis. Numa noted that the Democratic Party has held a lead in House predictions throughout the year, with an additional 20 races now trending leftward.
However, the power rankings indicate that the Senate remains a toss-up, a finding consistent with numerous other polls. Fox News co-anchor John Roberts discussed the implications of these predictions on air, suggesting a scenario of divided government where Democrats control the House and Republicans retain the Senate. This would likely lead to numerous investigations originating from the House, while Senate control would prevent the president from easily passing legislation.
While Fox News is often associated with pro-MAGA coverage, the network has shown increased critical commentary regarding Trump in recent weeks. In a previous instance, the network supported other media outlets that Trump had attempted to ban from the White House.
One of Trump's former advisers, Peter Navarro, has publicly urged supporters to boycott Fox News, accusing the network of undermining the Trump administration and calling its coverage "dangerous drivel."