Voting is underway across the United States in the 2026 midterm elections, with nearly 60 million people having already cast their ballots through early voting, reflecting strong voter participation ahead of Election Day.
Polling stations began opening in several states on Tuesday morning (local time), marking the start of a crucial election that will determine control of both chambers of Congress — the House of Representatives and the Senate.
According to election data, more than 57 million Americans had cast early ballots by Monday afternoon, with the figure expected to increase as Election Day voting continues.
The election is being closely watched because Republicans and Democrats are competing to secure majorities in Congress.
Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both chambers, while Democrats are seeking to regain control.
The outcome will have significant implications for President Donald Trump’s administration, as congressional control will influence the passage of legislation, government spending and oversight of the administration.
Early voting has been particularly strong in several states, including Texas, where millions of voters have already cast their ballots.
Both parties have been campaigning actively to mobilise supporters before polling day.
The early voting figures include ballots cast in person and by mail.
However, election analysts have cautioned that early voting patterns alone cannot determine the eventual outcome, as voters’ party registrations do not necessarily indicate which candidates they support.
The midterm elections are held every two years, halfway through a US president’s four-year term.
All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 Senate seats are being contested this year, alongside gubernatorial and other state-level races.
The results are expected to shape the political balance in Washington and influence the remainder of Trump’s presidency.