Americans are head to the polls for its midterm elections 2026 (Img: X)
Washington: Americans are heading to the polls today for its midterm elections for the 2026 US midterm elections, a crucial political event that could reshape the balance of power in Washington. Although President Donald Trump is not directly contesting the election, the results are widely viewed as a referendum on his leadership and second-term policies.
Voters will decide the fate of all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 seats in the Senate. Both Republicans and Democrats are campaigning aggressively to secure control of Congress.
Opinion polls suggest Democrats have gained momentum, particularly in the race for the House. Democrats will secure a majority in the House of Representatives a threshold that requires 218 or more seats. Meanwhile, several Senate races are shaping up to be tightly contested.
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According to the reports, Trump's approval rating stood between 34 to 38% . Democrats held an eight-point advantage over Republicans in the congressional preference survey, leading 46% to 38%.
Democrats need to secure a net gain of three House seats and four Senate seats to take control of both chambers, according to election-day assessments.
Although Majority of Americans are said to be dissatisfied with the way he is handling his job.
Michigan has emerged as one of the closely watched Senate contests. Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed is challenging Republican Mike Rogers. Recent polling has shown El-Sayed with an advantage, although the final outcome will depend on voter turnout.
A victory would make El-Sayed the first Muslim elected to the US Senate.
Trump has also made his position clear ahead of the election. During a campaign rally in Kansas, he warned that a Democratic-controlled Congress would face presidential resistance to legislation he opposes.
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Calling himself 'Mr Veto', Trump indicated that he would use his constitutional veto powers to block bills passed by Congress. However, lawmakers can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
The election outcome could significantly influence Trump's remaining two years in office. A Democratic takeover of either chamber could intensify congressional scrutiny of government spending, military decisions and domestic policies.
For India, the results could also shape discussions on trade, tariffs, defence cooperation and technology partnerships. New Delhi will need to maintain strong bipartisan engagement in Washington, regardless of which party emerges stronger.
The results will determine not only Congress's future leadership but also the political space available to Trump during the second half of his presidency.
