Voters in the United States will elect their local representatives this November 2018,  in one of the most important midterm elections in the nation’s history. These local elections have the ability to completely alter the political landscape of the United States for years to come and most directly, the 2020 Presidential election.

The Republican party currently holds a 50-49 majority, clinging to political control. Based on national poll results there are currently 10 Senate races that look truly competitive, West Virginia, North Dakota, Montanna, Missouri, Florida, and some Republican seats in Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, and Arizona. In order to gain the Senate majority, the Democratic party would have to sweep these states.

The Democratic party has been at a disadvantage since the Republican party gained control in 2010, reworking voting districts to ensure their political dominance. Some call this political strategy gerrymandering and highly condemn it, but both parties have used it in the past to maintain control of Congress. In order for the Democratic party to rework these voting districts, they will have to gain 3 more Senate seats.

It currently appears that the Democratic party is leading in polls, with 52% of registered voters favoring local Democratic candidates, versus only 38% favoring local Republican candidates. While this is a substantial gap, it is completely possible for the Republican party to become more popular among voters. In addition to this, the Democratic party will have to overcome a historically low voter turn out.

The effects of a partisan shift in Congres would be profound. If the Democratic party had more control over Congress they would be able to limit some of President Trump’s policies and reshape the current voting districts, to try and ensure they have an advantage in future elections. The changes Trump has made have primarily only been possible because of the Republican party’s control over Congress. With control of one or both of the houses of Congress, the Democratic party could secure control of various Congressional committees and restrict Trump’s agenda. Some believe that a Democratic victory could lead to Trump’s impeachment, but incumbent Democratic Congressmen are quick to denounce that goal.