The Midterms

MIDTERMS POWER WHAT COMES NEXT

Midterm elections take place halfway between presidential elections and help determine the direction of Congress for the following two years.

In 2026, all 435 voting seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and approximately one-third of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate will be on the ballot. The results will also determine which political party holds the majority in each chamber.

Congressional elections determine who represents your district in the House and who represents your state in the Senate. Taken together, these elections can shape congressional leadership, legislative priorities, committee agendas, and oversight of federal agencies.

Depending on state and local election schedules, your ballot may also include offices and measures with a more immediate effect on your community. These may include governors, state legislators, mayors, county officials, judges and ballot measures addressing issues such as budgets, taxes, zoning and land use. The offices and measures appearing on the ballot vary by state and locality.

CONSIDER VOTING EARLY

Election Day is not the only opportunity many voters have to cast a ballot. In states that offer early in-person voting, voting before Election Day can provide greater flexibility around work, travel, family responsibilities, weather, or unexpected schedule changes.

Early Voting dates, requirements, and locations vary by state. Review the information where you live and choose the voting option that works best for you.