Polls in the 2026 midterm elections have closed in six states, including Georgia and South Carolina. Americans are deciding whether Republicans will retain control of the White House and both chambers of Congress.
All 435 House seats and 35 of the Senate's 100 seats are on the ballot Tuesday. Historically, midterm elections have generally been unfavorable for the president's party.
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Democrats are hoping those historical trends continue Tuesday and that they can reclaim both chambers of Congress. While most projections show Democrats regaining control of the House, the Senate remains less certain. Republicans can afford to lose three seats and still maintain control.
In addition to federal races, voters in 36 states will choose governors. Many states also have ballot measures covering issues ranging from voting rights to school funding.
Early indicators
Kentucky's 6th Congressional District could provide an early indication of where the night is headed for both parties.
The Cook Political Report lists the district among 18 true toss-up House races. The district, which includes the Lexington metropolitan area, has been represented by Republican Rep. Andy Barr since 2013. Barr is leaving the House as he seeks election to Kentucky's U.S. Senate seat.
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In 2024, Barr won the district by a 63%-37% margin. But the district has shown a willingness to support candidates from both parties. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear carried the district in 2023, receiving about 60% of the vote there.
This year, Democrat Zach Dembo faces Republican Ralph Alvarado.
Many Americans have already voted
The 2026 midterm elections shattered early-voting records for a midterm cycle. The University of Florida's Election Lab reports that 58.9 million Americans have already cast ballots. If turnout resembles 2022 levels, that total would account for more than half of all votes cast.
In recent elections, early voting has tended to favor Democrats, while Election Day voting has generally favored Republicans.
There are signs Democrats performed better in early voting this year than in previous elections.
