What you need to know about the 2026 US midterm elections - explainer
The US midterm elections will take place on November 3, with 57 million already having cast their ballots as of Monday.
The 2026 US midterm elections are set to take place on November 3, 2026, when voters will elect representatives for the House of Representatives and Senate, as well as governors across the nation. While not directly involving the president, these elections significantly impact Congress and can influence the president's performance and future agenda.
As of early voting, over 57 million ballots have been cast in the 2026 midterm elections, exceeding the 46 million early votes cast in the 2022 midterms. The election is predicted to be the most expensive in US history, with an estimated $11.9 billion spent by candidates and outside political groups.
Elon Musk's support for Republicans alone reached approximately $366 million, according to campaign finance records. However, midterms typically see lower voter turnout compared to presidential races. In contrast, the 2024 presidential election saw over 155 million votes cast.
Control of Congress is crucial, as Democrats aim to gain majority control in both the House and Senate. In the House, Republicans currently hold a 218-214 majority, while Democrats must win four seats to claim control. In the Senate, Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, necessitating a net gain of four seats for Democrats to take control.
Midterms can impact the president's standing and may lead to course corrections if voters express dissatisfaction. Recent polling shows President Donald Trump's approval rating at a near-record low of 32%. Issues like rising prices may influence voter sentiment, particularly affecting Republican candidates. Conversely, Democrats demonstrate increased enthusiasm and higher early voting rates.
The election also features gubernatorial races in all 50 states, with Democrats controlling 43.8% of state legislative seats and Republicans holding 55%. If Democrats secure the House, they may appoint Speaker Hakeem Jeffries, the first Black American to hold the position, who has expressed a focus on addressing corruption in the Trump administration and improving cost-of-living issues. Conversely, a Republican speaker would likely prioritize tax cuts, defense spending, and reduced social safety net programs.
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