The 2026 US midterm elections are set to determine whether Donald Trump retains the congressional backing needed to pursue his agenda during the final two years of his presidency.
Every one of the 435 seats in the House of Representatives is being contested, alongside 35 Senate races. The outcome will decide which party controls Congress and holds the power to advance, block or investigate the administration’s policies.
Voting took place on Tuesday, November 3, with results expected to emerge at different speeds across the country. The Associated Press has warned that control of the House and Senate may not be confirmed immediately, particularly if several close contests require further counting or recounts.
Republicans are defending their congressional majorities, while Democrats are seeking gains in competitive districts and Senate contests. The balance of power in Washington will shape the legislative timetable, committee investigations and the extent of opposition facing Mr Trump.
The elections also include 36 governors’ races, giving voters in more than two-thirds of US states the chance to decide who will lead their state governments for the next four years.
With the presidency not on the ballot, the midterms are nevertheless being closely watched as a nationwide test of Mr Trump’s second term. The results will determine how much influence his administration can exert over Congress before the next presidential election.
