New York's role on election night: Control of Congress

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- New York will play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in Washington.

The Empire State could give Democrats two or more of the four U.S. House seat flips needed to gain power over the lower chamber. There are seven New York swing districts up for election Tuesday.

Here's what you need to know about New York's potential sway this election:

What is the current US House balance of power?

There are currently 220 Republican US representatives and 212 Democratic representatives, along with three vacancies.

Those three vacancies will be filled this election and are expected to produce two additional Democratic representatives and one additional Republican representative.

This would make the Congressional balance of power effectively 221-214 favoring Republicans.  Democrats would need to flip a net total of four seats to gain a majority.

Where are the seven NY swing districts?

• Long Island: NY-1, NY-3 and NY4. 
• Hudson Valley: NY-17, NY-18 and NY-19, which also spans a large portion of upstate
• Syracuse: NY-22

Which districts are currently represented by Republicans?

• NY-1
• NY-4
• NY-17
• NY-19
• NY-22

Which districts are currently represented by Democrats?

• NY-3
• NY-18

What do election polls show?

Democrats seem to be most likely to flip NY-4 and NY-22, while holding their two districts in NY-3 and NY-18.

NY-19 is more competitive, based on polling. NY-1 is going to be difficult for Republicans.

Polling shows Republicans have momentum in NY-17.