As Americans head to the polls for the 2026 midterm elections, voters across the country are deciding the balance of power in Congress and delivering the first nationwide verdict on President Donald Trump’s second term. Across the nation, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and roughly a third of the 100-seat Senate are being contested, with Democrats vying to secure control of the legislative branch.
Early live updates from the contests show Democratic US senators Jon Ossoff of Georgia and Mark Warner of Virginia securing crucial victories by winning re-election to their respective seats. Meanwhile, polls have closed in states including Ohio, North Carolina, and South Carolina as local election officials begin tabulating votes in a contentious political climate.
The midterm cycle has focused heavily on economic concerns, immigration policies, and the legislative agenda pursued by the White House. While Republicans seek to defend their narrow majorities in Congress amidst an uphill battle in several competitive districts, Democrats are pushing for significant gains in both chambers to reshape federal oversight.
