By Jonathan McCollum  |  Government Relations – Client Alert  |  November 4, 2026

Tuesday’s midterm elections delivered a sweeping Democratic victory, flipping control of both chambers of Congress. Democrats captured at least seven Republican-held Senate seats, secured a House majority and made significant gains in governors’ races.

For New York, the implications are enormous. Two Brooklyn Democrats are positioned to lead Congress: Hakeem Jeffries as Speaker of the House and Chuck Schumer as Senate Majority Leader. Together, they will have extraordinary influence over the legislative agenda, federal spending and oversight for the next two years.

An Aggressive Legislative Agenda

Jeffries is planning a legislative sprint in the first 100 hours, with votes to restore expired Affordable Care Act premium subsidies, reverse nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts, challenge Trump’s tariffs and reclaim congressional authority over trade, and require authorization for continued military action in Iran.

The Senate filibuster and President Trump’s veto power will limit what becomes law. But Democrats will set the agenda, lead committees, conduct oversight and gain leverage in federal spending negotiations.

New York’s Congressional Delegation Will Play an Outsized Role

New York’s influence goes well beyond its two leaders. Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke will help advance health equity, housing, education, voting rights and economic opportunity, including access to capital for underserved communities.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s national profile, fundraising and support for progressive House and Senate candidates give her a strong voice in debates over affordability, health care, housing, climate and economic inequality.

Republicans Nicole Malliotakis, Nick LaLota and Andrew Garbarino could also play important roles as their party regroups. Their experience representing competitive districts and working across the aisle may prove valuable in bipartisan negotiations.

A Significant Opportunity for Federal Investment in New York

Federal investment may be the biggest opportunity for New York. The Trump administration has frozen, reduced or challenged funding for transportation, infrastructure, health care, education and economic development. With New Yorkers leading both chambers, expect a renewed push to restore commitments and advance projects across the state.

New York companies, nonprofits, hospitals, colleges, construction firms and local governments could benefit from renewed attention to appropriations, infrastructure, research, workforce development and economic development funding.

Those opportunities will not materialize automatically. Early engagement, a clear strategy and strong relationships with congressional offices and federal agencies will matter.

With New York at the center of congressional leadership, access to its delegation will be critical to shaping policy and securing investment. Davidoff Hutcher & Citron’s longstanding bipartisan relationships and record of representing leading New York companies and organizations in Washington position us to work daily with the delegation on legislation, funding and policies that benefit New Yorkers.