Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball, the election handicapper at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, updated its projections for two key U.S. House races on Thursday, July 16, 2026. The changes affect contests in Maine and California as Democrats and Republicans compete to secure control of the House during this midterm election cycle.

The Crystal Ball shifted its forecast for a California House seat in favor of the Democrats, while the projection for a Maine seat moved toward the Republican Party (GOP). These adjustments reflect the evolving dynamics of the races as both parties intensify efforts to influence the balance of power in Congress.

The updates come amid a broader national contest for the lower chamber, underscoring the significance of individual district outcomes in shaping overall control.

Source: The Hill

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