US midterms explained: What’s at stake for Trump?

The US midterm elections, set for November 3, 2026, are a crucial event that determines control of Congress and impacts the remaining two years of President Donald Trump's term. While Trump himself is not up for election, these polls have significant implications for the direction and legacy of his administration.

The midterms are held every two years and involve the election of all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the Senate's 100 seats. They also see the choice of governors, state lawmakers and other officials whose policies affect everyday life.

Voters can choose their ballots early in person or by mail, depending on state rules. The candidates and offices on the ballot vary by state, with some areas also deciding on referendums on local issues or proposed constitutional changes.

Congress, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is the legislative branch of the US federal government. Both chambers must approve legislation before it reaches the president. The House represents individual districts for two-year terms, while senators represent entire states, serving six-year terms with staggered elections.

A majority of 218 seats in the House and 51 in the Senate are needed for a party to control Congress. Currently, Republicans hold both chambers, with 218 seats in the House and 53 in the Senate. To shift this balance, Democrats need to gain four Senate seats, as Vice-President JD Vance's tie-breaking vote in the Senate currently favors Republicans.

The outcome of the midterms will either bolster Trump's agenda with continued Republican control, or limit his ability to push through legislation and nominate judges and officials, potentially giving Democrats more power to check the president's actions.