When the new Congress is sworn in
The gist
The 120th Congress constitutionally begins at noon on January 3, 2027, after Democrats won both chambers.
The date falls on a Sunday, so the first meeting could shift by law.
How it unfolded
- Nov 3, 2026Americans vote to renew the House and part of the Senate; counting, certification and preparation for the new Congress begin the next day.
- Nov 9, 2026Members of the current Congress return with significant work left in the lame duck session.
- November–December 2026The outgoing Congress remains in office while new representatives prepare their teams and attend group organization meetings.