James Mahoney one of Australia’s most distinguished public relations academics and practitioners reminded the blog today that pundits on elections ought not ignore the betting odds.

He cited Siladitya Ray, a Forbes Staffer, writing on September 23 2026, who reported that The Election Betting Odds tracker which consolidates numbers from popular prediction markets, shows that Kalshi bettors believe Democrats have a 63.8% chance of taking control of the Senate .

Polymarket, the crypto-based betting platform, gives Democrats a 66% chance.

Bettors are heavily leaning towards Democratic victories in Senate races including Michigan, Maine, New Hampshire and Texas. Texas has been thought to be in play often and no Democrat has won a statewide race since 1994 but that may be changing with the Republicans nominating an unpopular candidate.

Polymarket, a crypto-based betting platform, has been notorious for successful bets just before Trump announcements on Iran and other Trump administration decisions.