Midterm voting Voters lining up to cast their ballots in Orlando, Florida, during early voting for the 2022 midterm elections. Typically, voter turnout in midterm elections lags in comparison to turnout in presidential election years. (more) 2026 U.S. midterm elections What roles will history, gerrymandering, candidates, and election security play? Written by Tracy Grant Tracy Grant is a senior editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica. She previously served as editor in chief, the first woman to hold that title. Tracy Grant Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Mar. 2, 2026 •History When thinking about the potential outcomes and implications of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, consider this: Incumbent presidents pretty much hate the midterms. If you’re wondering why, just ask Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. In 1994 and 2010, respectively, each president saw the Democratic Party post devastating losses in the midterms. Clinton and Obama aren’t the exception; they are the rule. An examination of the 22 midterm elections from 1934 through 2018 reveals that the...

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