Voting Opens Ahead of November Midterms

Early voting for the 2026 U.S. midterm elections began Friday, marking a major step toward the November 3 election. Virginia is among the first states to open in-person early voting, with voters choosing members of Congress and deciding statewide ballot measures.

The elections will determine the next composition of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, making the coming weeks an important period for candidates, political parties and voters.

More States to Begin Early Voting

While voting has opened in Virginia, additional states are expected to begin their early-voting periods in the coming weeks. Rules, dates and available voting methods vary by state.

Election officials are continuing preparations for the November election, including ballot processing, polling-place operations and election-security measures.

Campaigns Enter Final Phase

The opening of early voting moves the 2026 midterm election campaign into a more active phase. National issues including the economy, immigration, foreign policy, artificial intelligence and federal government policy are among the subjects receiving attention from candidates and voters.

The November 3 election will determine all 435 U.S. House seats and 35 Senate seats, alongside numerous state and local contests.

With early voting now underway, election officials are encouraging voters to check their state's official election information for registration status, voting dates, polling locations and identification requirements.