US midterm elections results are being closely watched on 3 November 2026, as voters across the United States decide contests for all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, 35 Senate seats and governorships in 36 states. The outcome will determine the balance of power in Congress and shape the political environment for the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term.

Results status: At the time of writing, polls are still opening or operating across different US time zones, and major live trackers have not yet reported any race calls. The first meaningful results are expected after polling stations begin closing. Vote totals and projections can change as more ballots are counted.

01. US midterm elections 2026: what is being decided?

The 2026 midterm elections are taking place halfway through the four-year presidential term. Voters are choosing representatives for the House, a portion of the Senate and governors in a number of states.

  • US House: All 435 seats are being contested. A party needs 218 seats for a majority.
  • US Senate: Thirty-five of the 100 seats are on the ballot, including two special elections.
  • Governor races: Voters are choosing governors in 36 states, alongside contests in three US territories.

02. US midterm election results: live status

There are no confirmed winners to report in the live national results available at the time of this update. The Associated Press (AP) reports vote counts and makes race calls when its decision desk determines that the trailing candidate no longer has a path to victory. A media race call is not the same as formal state certification.

Readers should distinguish between a candidate leading in partial returns, a race being called by a news organisation and a result being officially certified by the relevant state. Early vote counts may change as election-day ballots and other eligible votes are processed.

03. What could decide control of the US House?

All 435 House seats are being contested. The party that wins at least 218 seats will control the chamber. Competitive districts across the country will be important in determining whether the existing majority changes hands. The final picture may take time to emerge because states report results at different speeds.

04. Senate elections: 35 seats on the ballot

Thirty-three regularly scheduled Senate seats and two special-election seats are being contested. Senators serve six-year terms, so the results will determine which candidates hold the seats for the next Senate terms. Close races may remain uncalled while election officials count outstanding ballots.

05. Governor elections across 36 states

Governors are also on the ballot in 36 states. State governors lead their state executive branches and have responsibilities that include implementing state laws, preparing budgets and signing or vetoing legislation. These contests are separate from the races for Congress.

06. When will US midterm election results be available?

There is no single national closing time. Polls close at different hours depending on the state and local time zone. Results are reported as local election authorities count ballots, and major news organisations update their trackers as verified information becomes available. Some close contests may take longer to call.

07. Where to follow live US midterm election results

For live results, readers can follow established election trackers and compare their reporting with state election authorities:

08. Why the 2026 midterm results matter

The House and Senate play central roles in passing federal legislation, approving budgets and conducting oversight of the executive branch. The election results will therefore affect the legislative priorities that can advance during the second half of the presidential term. The scale of that impact will depend on the final composition of both chambers.

09. Frequently asked questions

When are the 2026 US midterm elections?

The general election is being held on Tuesday, 3 November 2026.

How many House seats are being contested?

All 435 seats in the US House of Representatives are being contested. A party needs 218 seats to hold a majority.

How many Senate seats are up for election?

Thirty-five Senate seats are being contested in 2026, including two special elections.

How many states are holding governor elections?

Thirty-six states are holding gubernatorial elections in 2026, alongside contests in three US territories.

Are the US midterm election results final?

Not while votes are still being counted. News organisations may call a race before every ballot is counted, but state election authorities are responsible for official results and certification.

10. Sources

NewsY will update this report as verified vote counts and race calls become available. Last checked: 3 November 2026.