The 2026 U.S. Senate elections are starting to shape up, and some familiar faces are making waves. With both major political parties gearing up for a battle to control the Senate, a few well-known figures could emerge as major contenders. These familiar faces have the name recognition and political clout to make a real impact on the race.
From seasoned incumbents facing primary challenges to newcomers hoping to capitalize on political momentum, the upcoming elections will be anything but boring.
A Race to Watch in Texas
In Texas, incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn is expected to run for re-election, but his path might not be as smooth as he would like. There is chatter that Cornyn could face a primary challenge from some of the more Trump-aligned figures in the state. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has clashed with Cornyn in the past, is a name that keeps popping up as a possible challenger.
Paxton’s conservative stance and high profile could energize Trump supporters, creating a tough race for the longtime senator.
Collin / IG / On the Democratic side, former Representative Colin Allred, who made waves in 2024 with a strong but unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate, is once again being mentioned as a potential candidate.
Though Texas remains a Republican-leaning state, Allred’s name recognition could make him a strong contender. The challenge will be to unite the Democratic base and reach independent voters in a state that leans right.
Democrats Are on Defense in Georgia
In Georgia, the race for U.S. Senate will be one to watch closely. Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, who is up for re-election, is already a top target for Republicans. With his relatively slim margin of victory in the 2020 election, the GOP is eager to reclaim the seat.
Republicans are looking to recruit high-profile candidates to run against Ossoff, with one of the leading names being term-limited Governor Brian Kemp.
Kemp’s decision to enter the race could change the dynamics of Georgia politics. Known for his firm conservative stance and popularity in the state, Kemp could pose a serious threat to Ossoff. However, Ossoff’s strong national profile and deep ties to Georgia’s diverse electorate could make him a tough opponent.
A Competitive Race in Maine
In Maine, Republican Senator Susan Collins could face her toughest challenge yet. While Collins has been a mainstay in Maine politics for years, the political climate has shifted. Democrats are eyeing a potential challenger in Governor Janet Mills. Mills, who won re-election in 2024, has built a strong reputation in Maine, which voted for Joe Biden in 2024.
A run by Mills would likely make for a highly competitive race.
BBC / If Mills decides to run, she could draw significant support from Democrats and independents. Collins, while still popular among many Republicans, may find it difficult to hold onto her seat in a more polarized political environment.
This race will likely be one of the most closely watched in the 2026 cycle, with both parties seeing it as a potential flip opportunity.
A Key Open Seat Awaits in Michigan
Michigan is another state where familiar faces may play a major role in the 2026 Senate race. Senator Gary Peters, a Democrat, is set to retire, leaving the seat open for the first time in years. Democrats are already looking at potential candidates to fill that void.
State Senator Mallory McMorrow and Representative Haley Stevens have both been mentioned as possible contenders. McMorrow, known for her fiery speeches and progressive platform, could energize the Democratic base, while Stevens brings a pragmatic approach to the table.
On the Republican side, there is speculation about former Representative Mike Rogers or 2022 gubernatorial nominee Tudor Dixon running for the seat. Both have name recognition and conservative credentials. This could make them formidable opponents in a state that has been trending blue in recent years.
