WASHINGTON, November 3, 2026: Voting has begun in the United States midterm elections, with control of Congress at stake as Americans deliver a crucial electoral verdict on President Donald Trump’s administration amid concerns over inflation, fuel prices and the conflict with Iran.
All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats are being contested, with the results set to determine the balance of power in Washington for the remaining two years of Trump’s presidential term.
Polling began in Vermont at 5 a.m. local time, followed by New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Virginia, where voting stations opened at 6 a.m.
Voting was scheduled to begin later in western states, including Alaska and Washington, while polling in Hawaii was set to start at noon local time.
The elections come as Trump faces political pressure over rising living costs, energy prices and the administration’s handling of the conflict with Iran.
According to media reports, Trump’s approval ratings have fallen close to their lowest levels, potentially complicating Republican efforts to retain control of Congress.
Democrats are considered competitive in the race for the House of Representatives, while the outcome of the Senate contests remains uncertain.
The opposition party needs a net gain of three House seats and four Senate seats to secure majorities in both chambers, according to the report.
A Democratic victory in either chamber could significantly affect Trump’s legislative agenda and increase congressional scrutiny of his administration.
Control of the House would give Democrats greater authority to launch investigations and conduct oversight, while control of the Senate would allow them to influence the confirmation of presidential nominees.
The elections also reflect a longstanding pattern in American politics, with the president’s party generally losing congressional seats during midterm contests.
Since the Second World War, the governing party has avoided losing seats in Congress during midterm elections on only two occasions, according to the report.
With the presidency not on the ballot, the results will nevertheless provide an important indication of public confidence in Trump’s policies and the political direction of the United States.
The outcome will determine whether Republicans retain their congressional advantage or Democrats gain sufficient power to challenge the administration’s legislative priorities.