U.S. Republicans Fight to Avoid Midterm Defeat as Record Early Voting Surges

Republicans made a final push on Sunday, November 1, 2026, to prevent heavy losses in the U.S. midterm elections where Democrats are aiming to win control of Congress.

Election Outlook

Polls indicate Democrats are heavily favored to take the majority in the House of Representatives in the Tuesday vote while also having a strong chance to win the Senate. President Donald Trump headlined final rallies in Iowa and Kansas, promising $5,000 payments to citizens if his party wins and warning voters about Democratic policies. An NBC News poll released on Sunday showed that 60% of Americans disapprove of Mr. Trump's performance, driven largely by high prices connected to his eight-month war against Iran.

Early Voting and Spending

Ahead of Tuesday's election day, a record 54 million people have already cast ballots nationwide due to intense political interest. Campaigns have spent approximately $11 billion on advertising, fueled by significant contributions from individual mega-donors. Trump ally Elon Musk provided nearly half a billion dollars to support Republican candidates.

Context

Midterm elections in the United States take place midway through a president's four-year term and routinely serve as a political referendum on the sitting administration. A shift in congressional control can significantly alter a president's ability to pass legislation, confirm judicial appointments, and manage federal spending.