Millions of Americans are casting ballots on Tuesday in the 2026 midterm elections, a contest that will determine whether Republicans maintain their majorities in the House and Senate or whether Democrats seize control of Congress. The outcome will shape President Donald Trump's ability to advance his agenda during the second half of his term.

What is at stake in the midterm elections?

The vote is widely framed as a referendum on the sitting president. Republicans are defending a 53-47 Senate majority and their hold on the House, while Democrats are trying to win enough seats to block policies they call dangerous. Campaign debate has centered on the economy, after the Iran war drove up fuel prices and the cost of living, and on immigration enforcement.

Read also US midterm elections: What is at stake for Congress?

  • Senate: 35 seats are up. Democrats need a net gain of four to reach 51 seats.
  • House: All 435 seats are contested. Democrats need a net gain of three.
  • Governorships: 36 seats are on the ballot.

Where are the key battlegrounds?

Democrats face an uphill path because most of their pickup targets backed Trump in recent elections. North Carolina is seen as their best chance to flip a Senate seat, with Maine, Texas, Ohio and Kansas also competitive, according to a New York Times/Siena poll cited by the Financial Times. Democrats also hold narrower leads in Alaska and are effectively tied in Iowa, while they must defend Michigan.

How expensive was this cycle?

It is on track to be the most expensive midterm on record. Federal spending is projected at about $12 billion, according to an OpenSecrets analysis of Federal Election Commission data cited by ABC News, and advertising across House, Senate and gubernatorial races cost roughly $7.1 billion, per the Wesleyan Media Project.

FAQ

How many people voted early?

More than 57 million early votes had been cast nationwide as of Monday afternoon, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab, a figure expected to exceed 2022's total.

When do polls close?

Polls begin closing at 6 p.m. Eastern time, with the first results expected soon afterward.