With Election Day approaching Tuesday, November 3, the 2026 midterm elections are drawing significant national attention as early voting numbers surpass previous midterm records and control of Congress remains uncertain.
More than 52.7 million Americans had cast early ballots by Saturday, surpassing the previous midterm early-voting record established in 2022, according to election reporting cited by States Newsroom.
However, election analysts caution that early voting numbers alone do not indicate which political party will perform better on Election Day.
The elections will determine control of the U.S. House and Senate during the remaining two years of President Donald Trump’s current term. Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both chambers.
Democrats would need to gain four Senate seats to secure control of the chamber, while the House is also expected to see several closely contested races.
According to campaign finance estimates from AdImpact, political advertising spending for the 2026 election cycle is projected to reach approximately $11.6 billion, making it one of the most expensive election cycles on record.
The economy and cost of living have remained major issues throughout the campaign season. Polling conducted by several organizations has identified food prices, fuel costs and other household expenses among the leading concerns for voters.
Immigration policy, presidential approval ratings and election administration have also played significant roles in the campaigns.
Iowa Among Closely Watched Senate Races
Iowa is among several states identified by national political forecasters as having a competitive U.S. Senate race.
Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is facing Democratic candidate Josh Turek for the Senate seat.
Other closely watched Senate contests include races in Alaska, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Ohio and Texas.
President Donald Trump has announced plans to campaign in Iowa and Kansas ahead of Election Day in support of Republican candidates.
Election Administration and Legal Challenges
Election procedures have also become a focus of national attention, with the U.S. Department of Justice pursuing legal actions involving voter registration records and ballot eligibility in several states.
The Justice Department has sought access to state voter information and requested that election officials in California and Washington set aside ballots belonging to voters the department suspects may not be U.S. citizens.
Federal judges have ruled against several of the administration’s requests involving California ballots. Additional legal proceedings remain ongoing.
The cases have raised questions about the federal government’s authority in elections, which are primarily administered by state and local officials.
Other legal challenges involving election procedures and ballot certification are continuing in Alaska.
Control of Congress Remains Uncertain
National political forecasts generally indicate Democrats have a competitive opportunity to gain control of the House, although analysts caution that the final results remain uncertain.
Several factors, including voter turnout, competitive congressional districts, redistricting and differences in enthusiasm among voter groups, could influence the outcome.
Political scientists have also cautioned against assuming that record early voting will necessarily produce a major shift in congressional control.
Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, November 3, with the results expected to determine the balance of power in Washington for the remainder of the current congressional term.
