What you need to know about the 2026 US midterm elections
SPY•US voters will choose House and Senate members and governors on November 3, 2026, with Republicans entering the election holding a 218-214 House edge and a 53-47 Senate majority. More than $3.8 billion had been spent on aired political ads as of October 12, and more than 100 million people may vote.
1. Congressional control at stake
Democrats are seeking majorities in both chambers. They need a net gain of four House seats and four Senate seats; 10 Senate races, including those in Maine, Ohio, North Carolina, Iowa and Georgia, could decide control.
2. Spending and turnout
More than 100 million people likely will cast ballots if turnout resembles the 2022 midterms. AdImpact said a record $3.8 billion had been spent on aired political ads as of October 12, with the most spending in Senate battlegrounds in Texas, Ohio and Michigan. Elon Musk has spent about $366 million to support Republicans, campaign finance records show.
3. Other races and stakes
Governors will be elected in 39 states, and nearly every state will vote for seats in its legislature. The article cites a September Reuters/Ipsos poll putting President Donald Trump's approval at 32%, and says rising consumer prices, voter enthusiasm and other factors could influence outcomes.
