US midterm elections occur every two years, midway through a presidential term. The next ones, in 2026 during President Donald Trump's second term, are set for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Key Dates

Primary elections for midterms vary by state, typically starting early in 2026 to select party nominees. The federal general election always falls on the first Tuesday after the second Monday in November, a tradition from the 1845 Election Act tied to farming schedules. Voter registration deadlines and early voting periods differ statewide, so checking local resources is essential.

What's at Stake

All 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats will be contested, potentially shifting the 120th Congress's balance. Additionally, 39 gubernatorial races and many state/local positions are up, influencing policy on budgets, oversight, and redistricting. These midterms often act as a referendum on the sitting president, with high stakes for both parties.

Historical Context

Midterms have historically favored the opposition party, though outcomes vary with economic and social trends. In 2026, debates over voting rules, mail-in ballots, and Trump-era policies could drive turnout. Analysts already highlight over 40,000 total seats nationwide, making it one of the most consequential cycles.

TL;DR: Mark November 3, 2026, for the general election—primaries come earlier by state. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.