Midterms: how the US midterm elections work

The United States will hold its midterm elections on November 3, 2026, with significant implications for the balance of power in Washington. These elections will renew all members of the House of Representatives, more than a third of the Senate, and a majority of governorships. According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted between September 30 and October 5, only 32% of Americans approve of President Donald Trump’s performance, raising questions about how his political influence might shift following these elections. Midterm elections occur every four years, alternating with presidential elections. They take place on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November, just like other major U.S. elections. All eligible voters aged 18 and older can participate, representing nearly 250 million people. In the last midterm elections, voter turnout reached 46.16%. These elections primarily focus on federal legislative seats, determining the composition of Congress. The House of Representatives consists of 435 members elected every two years, with representation based on each state's population. California, the most populous state with around 40 million residents, holds 52 seats, while smaller states such as Wyoming, Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Delaware, and Vermont have only one representative each. Additionally, six non-voting delegates are chosen from American territories including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In contrast, the Senate has two senators per state, regardless of population size, each serving six-year terms. This means that approximately one-third of the Senate seats are up for election in any given midterm cycle. Currently, the Senate is composed of 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats, and 2 independents who typically align with the Democratic Party. For the Democrats to gain a majority, they need to win at least four of the 35 Senate races scheduled for November 3. In case of a tie, Vice President J.D. Vance would cast the deciding vote. Beyond federal elections, voters will also choose governors in 36 states, along with local officials such as mayors, sheriffs, judges, school board members, and even rail commission heads. The midterms reflect the principle of checks and balances within the U.S. government, ensuring that no single branch holds unchecked power. Presently, the Republican Party holds a majority in both chambers of Congress, giving them substantial control over legislative decisions.