US President Donald Trump faces a crucial test as the 2026 midterm elections take place today.
Voters in the United States (US) are going to the polls today, on Tuesday, November 3, in midterm elections that could reshape the balance of power in Congress and influence President Donald Trump’s agenda for the next two years.
The contest is between Trump’s Republican Party and the opposition Democrats, with all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 seats in the Senate up for election.
The outcome of several closely contested Senate races could prove decisive in determining which party controls the chamber.
Republicans currently hold 53 Senate seats, compared with 47 held by Democrats and their allies. Democrats would need a net gain of at least four seats to take control, according to the figures cited in the election briefing.
Trump’s approval ratings, inflation, the war involving Iran and public concerns over government policies have been among the major issues during the campaign.
Polling and election assessments cited in the reports suggest these issues have made contests more competitive, including in some states traditionally considered Republican strongholds.
Democrats are seeking to make gains by focusing on public dissatisfaction, while Republicans are campaigning to retain their Senate majority.
North Carolina is among the states attracting particular attention, with Democrat Roy Cooper facing Republican Michael Whatley.
In Ohio, former senator Sherrod Brown is seeking a return to the Senate in a contest against Republican candidate Jon Husted.
Texas is also being closely watched, where Democrat James Talarico is challenging Republican Ken Paxton in a state that has traditionally been a Republican stronghold.
Other closely watched contests include Michigan, where Democrat Abdul El-Sayed is facing Republican Mike Rogers, and Maine, where Republican Senator Susan Collins is contesting the seat against Democrat Troy Jackson.
In New Hampshire, Democrat Chris Pappas is running against Republican John Sununu. Races in Alaska, Kansas and Iowa are also being viewed as important.
In Georgia, Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is seeking to retain his seat.
The Senate and House of Representatives play central roles in passing legislation, overseeing the government and approving key appointments.
If Republicans retain control of the Senate, Trump’s administration is likely to have continued support from his party on legislation and important government appointments.
A Democratic majority, by contrast, could lead to greater scrutiny of the administration’s policies and more political disputes over legislation.
The results will therefore determine not only the balance of power in Congress but also the political challenges Trump may face during the remaining two years of his presidency.
