U.S. midterm polls open on a consequential vote for Americans and Trump

On Tuesday, American voters will cast ballots in critical midterm elections that could significantly impact President Donald Trump's administration for the following two years. A total of 35 Senate seats and all 435 House of Representatives seats are up for grabs. Trump and his Republican Party are grappling with a series of challenges, including falling approval ratings and a potential "blue wave" from Democrats.

Economic concerns, particularly the cost of living, are weighing heavily on voters' minds, with 47 percent of Americans citing it as their top priority, followed by democratic values (26 percent) and immigration (12 percent). The president's unpopularity, coupled with the country's economic turmoil, which has been exacerbated by his war in Iran, has contributed to the Democrats' hope for a strong electoral performance.

Even if Trump loses control of both chambers of Congress, he will retain considerable power through his role as president and the ability to issue executive orders. For the Democrats to seize control, they need to secure 51 seats in the Senate, which involves persuading those who voted for Trump to switch sides. In the House of Representatives, the party holds a slim one-seat majority, making it a difficult task to defend during the midterms.

As of October 26, 47 percent of respondents said they would vote for Democrats in their congressional district, while 36 percent intended to vote Republican, with 11 percent still undecided. The final results will be available early on Wednesday morning, with the last polls closing in Alaska at 1 a.m. Eastern.