WASHINGTON — Voting got underway across the United States on Tuesday for the 2026 midterm elections, with control of Congress hanging in the balance as voters chose all 435 members of the House of Representatives and 35 of 100 Senate seats.
The elections, held halfway through President Donald Trump's four-year term, are shaping up as a competitive contest with Republicans holding narrow majorities in both chambers. The GOP controls 218 of 435 House seats and 53 of 100 Senate seats, while Democrats are targeting gains in several key states to shift the balance of power.
More than 51 million Americans had already voted early before Election Day, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab, exceeding the total recorded during the 2022 midterms. The early voting surge underscores the high stakes of the contests.
The party controlling Congress has considerable influence over the president's ability to govern. Congress passes legislation, approves government spending and oversees the executive branch. The Senate also confirms presidential nominees to key government positions, including federal judges and senior administration officials.
Democrats need a net gain of four seats to take control of the Senate, where they are targeting competitive races in states including Michigan, Kansas, Texas, Maine, Ohio and Alaska. At least five House seat changes from Republicans to Democrats would give Democrats majority control of the chamber.
The economic agenda has emerged as a central theme of the campaign. Voters cited the cost of living and inflation as top concerns, with Democrats holding an advantage on these issues in several battleground states. The war involving Iran and its impact on energy prices has also featured in the political debate.
Polling hours vary by state with no single nationwide closing time. The first polling stations in parts of Indiana and Kentucky are scheduled to close at 6 pm Eastern Time. Results are expected to emerge through the night, but close contests may take longer to resolve as election officials count outstanding ballots and verify results.
State election authorities remain the primary source for official results, including vote counts, recounts and final certification. A close result can lead to recounts, court challenges and disputes over ballot validity. The US Constitution gives the House and Senate the power to judge the elections, returns and qualifications of their own members.
Any House contests still unresolved when the new Congress convenes in January would be considered by the incoming House. The process can become particularly contentious when party control is at stake.
The midterm elections will determine which party controls Congress for the final two years of Trump's presidency and will significantly impact his ability to advance his agenda on trade, immigration and other policy areas.
Official results will be certified by state election authorities in the days and weeks following November 3. Voters are encouraged to check with their state election offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information on vote counts and race outcomes.
