Explainer | 2024 US congressional races: what to expect and how China plays a role

Concerns about Beijing loom in some contests as Democrats seek to hang on to the Senate and Republicans eye expanding their House majority

Reading Time:7 minutes

Published: 11:25pm, 10 Oct 2024Updated: 5:24am, 6 Nov 2024

(Editor’s note: This report has been updated in light of race ratings finalised on November 1, including the shift of the Pennsylvania Senate race from “lean Democrat” to “toss up”.)

America’s 2024 general election has many quirks like divergent voting processes, the outsize influence of “swing states” and uncertainties about how congressional results will affect the next president’s ability to govern. In the third of a four-part series, the South China Morning Post takes a closer look at the battle for control of the US Senate and House of Representatives, as well as where China has played a notable campaign role.

Along with exercising their choice for US president on November 5, American voters will cast their ballots for members of the US Senate and House of Representatives.

In recent years, the US Congress has taken an increasingly active role in shaping the country’s China policy. As a separate branch of government, Congress drafts laws, approves budgets and conducts oversight of the executive branch’s activities.

The political party in control of a congressional chamber sets its legislative and oversight agenda. Bills must clear both chambers before they can become law.

As happens every two years, all 435 House seats are up for grabs. At present, the Republicans hold a 220-212 edge over the Democrats, with three seats vacant.

Democrats need to flip four seats and reclaim two of the three vacant seats to reach the 218 seats required for control of the House, while Republicans hope to expand their narrow majority.

SCMP Series

US elections 2024: what you need to know

[ 3 of 4 ]