In the aftermath of the Embargo of 1807, the Federalists picked up congressional seats for the first time since their defeat in the 1800 election.

However, the Democratic-Republican Party maintained control of the presidency and both houses of Congress.

In the presidential election, Democratic-Republican Secretary of State James Madison easily defeated Federalist Governor Charles Pinckney of South Carolina.

In the House, Federalists won moderate gains, but Democratic-Republicans continued to dominate the chamber.

[4] In the Senate, Federalists picked up one seat, but Democratic-Republicans retained a dominant majority.