Early Voting Underway for November 2026 Midterm Elections
In-person early voting began September 18 in Virginia and is expanding across the US. Voters have six weeks to cast ballots before the November 3 midterm election, which will determine control of Congress.
When and How to Vote
In-person voting for the 2026 midterm elections began Friday, ushering in the final six weeks for Americans to decide who they trust to lead Congress. The number of states offering options to vote before November expanded from 24 in 2000 to 47 in 2026, plus Washington, D.C., though early-voting periods, eligibility requirements, and procedures vary widely by state.
In 47 states and Washington, D.C., a voter may vote before Election Day for any reason. In the remaining three states (Alabama, Mississippi, and New Hampshire), a valid reason is required to vote before Election Day.
Virginia, where early voting began Friday, expanded weekend early voting and dropped its absentee witness requirement; mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day can now arrive by noon three days after Election Day.
What's at Stake
The November 3 election will determine whether the House and Senate maintain their Republican majorities; if Democrats retake Congress, it will alter the trajectory of the final two years of Trump's term, most likely leading to investigations and other oversight efforts.
For Newcomers to the US
If you are a permanent resident, naturalized citizen, or eligible voter, now is the time to research your state's voting rules and cast your ballot. Early voting comes at a time of deep concern among many Americans about rising gas and grocery prices, the war in Iran, artificial intelligence risks, and Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement campaign. Voting is a core civic participation activity and can influence policy affecting immigration, healthcare, housing, and employment. Check your state election website or vote.gov to confirm your eligibility and find your polling location.
Sources
Independent app, not a government. General information, not advice. The official source:
