The interesting lesson from history is that divided government has sometimes been a surprisingly good environment for stocks. RBC data shows the S&P 500 averaged 17% annual returns under a Democratic president with divided congressional control. However, correlation doesn't establish causation.

For 2026, I see both risks and opportunities. Greater AI regulation could pressure high-valuation technology companies, while reduced political room for sweeping policy changes may limit sudden disruptions. The real question is whether AI companies can convert massive capital expenditure into sustainable free cash flow.

I wouldn't sell stocks simply because Democrats won Congress. I'd focus on companies with pricing power, strong balance sheets and real earnings growth. Political headlines move sentiment; earnings ultimately determine whether valuations are justified.