Millions of Americans are voting in elections that will determine the balance of power in Congress, with the outcome set to shape President Donald Trump’s ability to push through his policies during the remaining two years of his term.
The November 3 polls will see voters elect representatives to both chambers of Congress, as well as governors and other state officials. The results will determine whether Republicans retain control of the legislature or Democrats gain ground.
While Trump is not seeking re-election in this vote, the outcome will provide an indication of how voters view his administration since he returned to the White House in January 2025.
The United States holds congressional elections every two years. When they take place halfway through a president’s four-year term, they are referred to as midterm elections.
Congress is responsible for passing federal legislation, approving government expenditure and overseeing the executive branch.
It consists of the House of Representatives, where members serve two-year terms, and the Senate, whose members serve six-year terms.
The party with the most seats in each chamber controls its leadership and has significant influence over the legislative agenda.
All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are being contested, alongside 35 of the Senate’s 100 seats.
The elections also include gubernatorial races in several states, including California, Florida, Georgia and Michigan, as well as contests for other state and local positions.
The outcome of these races will determine who represents Americans in Congress and who leads various state governments.
The cost of living is a major concern, with households facing pressure from the prices of food, fuel, housing and healthcare.
Trump’s trade policies have also drawn criticism from Democrats, who argue that tariffs have contributed to higher costs for consumers.
Immigration remains another divisive issue. Republicans have defended the administration’s tougher border controls and enforcement measures, while critics have questioned the methods used in its crackdown.
Artificial intelligence has also entered the political debate. Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about the need for safeguards and regulation, although Trump has opposed introducing laws that could restrict the technology’s development
Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both chambers, giving them control of Congress and a greater ability to advance the president’s legislative priorities.
A Democratic takeover of either chamber would change that balance.
If Democrats gain control of the House, they would have greater authority over its committees and investigations, including inquiries into the administration’s decisions and activities.
They could also initiate impeachment proceedings against Trump. Any impeachment would, however, require a trial in the Senate, where conviction and removal from office would require a two-thirds majority.
A shift in Senate control would affect the consideration of legislation and the chamber’s role in confirming presidential appointments.
The incoming Congress will serve during the final two years of Trump’s current presidential term.
The president’s ability to secure support for legislation and government spending proposals will depend partly on the composition of the two chambers.
The midterms will also shape the political environment ahead of the 2028 presidential election, when both parties will begin positioning themselves for the next race for the White House.
Trump cannot seek a third elected presidential term under the US Constitution, making the next election a contest to choose his successor.
