Can Democrats win a majority? House Democrats are optimistic about gaining at least some seats this year, House Democratic leader Robert Reives, D-Chatham, has told reporters. Some Democrats in the state House were practically measuring drapes in the speaker’s office, Reives told WRAL. The more seats Democrats win, the weaker the threat of an override becomes. “House Republicans have record-breaking fundraising, excellent candidates, and a strong record of tax cuts and teacher raises to campaign on,” Hall said.