First polls close in pivotal US midterm elections | US Midterm Elections 2026 News
Control of Congress at Stake in US Midterm Elections
Published on November 3, 2026
Polling places across the United States have begun closing as voters cast their ballots in a pivotal midterm election, one that could determine control of Congress. A total of 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 Senate seats are contested in this election.
Democrats are focused on issues such as the rising cost of living and the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran. The party aims to regain power in the House of Representatives and potentially reclaim control of the Senate from Republicans.
Early insights into the election’s impact are expected from Kentucky’s sixth congressional district, which closed its polls at 6 p.m. ET. This district, home to Lexington, the state’s second-largest city, has seen significant investment from Democrats in the campaign of Zach Dembo, a Navy veteran. He is running against Ralph Alvarado, a physician and former state lawmaker backed by former President Donald Trump.
A Republican victory in this competitive district could foreshadow the party’s performance in similar races nationwide.
As votes are tallied throughout the evening, results will be reported progressively. However, some results may not be available until Wednesday or later as various states conclude their voting processes and release their tallies.
For up-to-date results, visit Al Jazeera’s live results page.
