Record turnout in key states as US midterms near close

The Guardian reported that voters in Florida, Georgia, Michigan and North Carolina are turning out in record numbers as the first round of polls in the 2026 midterm elections approaches the 6 p.m. ET deadline on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Early voting has already exceeded the totals recorded in the 2022 midterms, according to the outlet. After months of campaigning, debate and analysis, Americans have been casting ballots that will decide the balance of power in Congress for the remainder of Donald Trump’s second term. The Guardian noted that the outcome will shape the political temperature of the nation halfway through the president’s tenure and influence his ability to push his agenda over the next two years. With all 50 states reporting results, the elections are poised to determine which party controls the House and Senate and, consequently, the direction of federal policy for the rest of the term.

Why it matters

The election will set the congressional balance of power and affect President Trump’s capacity to advance his agenda for the next two years.

Key details

Location

United States · Americas

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

4 Nov 2026, 04:19 IST

Key names

Congress, House, Senate, Donald Trump

Section

Politics

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianUS midterm elections 2026 live updates: key House and Senate races to determine control of Congress for remainder of Trump’s term 4 Nov, 04:19

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

Spotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced