Americans are heading to the polls on Tuesday as voting begins in the 2026 midterm elections, a major political test for President Donald Trump and his Republican Party, which currently controls both chambers of Congress.
The election will determine all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 Senate seats. Voters in 36 states will also elect governors, alongside thousands of state and local officials.
The contest is widely being viewed as a referendum on Trump’s second presidency, with Democrats seeking to regain control of Congress and use their majority to provide greater oversight of the administration. Republicans, meanwhile, are campaigning to retain their congressional majorities and maintain legislative support for Trump’s agenda.
Republicans currently hold majorities in both chambers. Democrats need to gain at least three House seats and four Senate seats to take control of the two chambers, although the Senate battle is considered particularly competitive.
The economy and cost of living have emerged as major concerns for voters, alongside issues including immigration, healthcare, tariffs, fuel prices and the administration’s foreign policy. Trump’s approval ratings and the impact of his policies have also become central issues in the campaign.
Trump has made an extensive effort to mobilise Republican voters, holding numerous rallies and urging his supporters to turn out for GOP candidates. Democrats have sought to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction and make gains in Republican-held districts and states.
The results could significantly shape the final two years of Trump’s presidency. A Democratic majority in either chamber would give the opposition greater power to investigate the administration, influence legislation and, in the Senate, scrutinise presidential appointments.
Polls are opening across the country at different times, with the first results expected after polling stations begin closing later Tuesday. While some races could be decided on election night, closely contested contests may take days to determine as mail-in and provisional ballots are counted.