Midterm Elections: Why Do They Matter?

Midterm Elections: Why Do They Matter?

Written by: Keya Gambhir

Every four years, Americans vote for a president. But did you know there is another important election halfway through a president’s term? It is called a midterm election, and the next one is happening today, on November 3, 2026!

Even though there is no presidential race this year, millions of people will still head to the polls. They will help choose who represents them in Congress, the part of the federal government responsible for making laws. So, what exactly happens during a midterm election, and why should people pay attention?

First, Let's Meet Congress

Congress is the legislative branch of the U.S. government. It has two parts, called chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Together, these groups debate, write, and vote on federal laws.

The House has 435 voting members. Each represents a congressional district, which is an area within a state. House members serve two-year terms, so every seat is on the ballot every two years. This means voters can choose their representative during both presidential and midterm election years.

The Senate has 100 members, with two senators representing each state. Senators serve six-year terms. Their elections are staggered, meaning only about one-third of the seats are up for election every two years. That is why you might not see a Senate race on every state's ballot.

Learn more about Congress here.

What Makes an Election a “Midterm”?

A midterm election takes place halfway through a president's four-year term. Presidential elections happen every four years, while congressional elections happen every two years. In 2026, voters will choose members of Congress without choosing a president.

The results matter because they determine which political party has more seats, or the majority, in the House and Senate. The party with the majority has more influence over which bills are discussed and voted on. This can affect how easily the president can work with Congress to pass laws.

How Do Candidates Get on the Ballot?

Before the general election, many candidates compete in a primary election. A primary is an election where voters help choose which candidate will represent a political party in the general election. The rules are different depending on the state. In an open primary, any registered voter can participate, while a closed primary only allows registered members of that political party to vote.

Then comes the general election, when voters choose who will hold the office. In 2026, Election Day is today, Tuesday, November 3. Some states also offer early or absentee voting, so people should check their state's election website for dates and rules.

Why Do Midterms Matter?

Midterms can change the balance of power in Congress. If a different party wins more seats, it may become easier or harder for the president to get support for proposed laws. Congress also makes decisions about issues that affect everyday life, including education, transportation, the environment, and the economy.

Midterm elections usually have lower voter turnout than presidential elections. One reason may be that presidential races receive more attention, while congressional races can receive less media coverage. But lower turnout does not mean the election is less important. Every vote helps decide who will represent a community.

Another interesting part of congressional elections is the “incumbency advantage.” An incumbent is a person who already holds the office they are running for. Incumbents often have an advantage because more voters recognize their names, they have experience, and they may have established fundraising networks. Still, they are not guaranteed to win. Voters can choose a challenger instead.

What Can Young People Do?

You may be too young to vote, but you do not have to wait until you are 18 to learn about elections. You can follow reliable news sources, compare candidates' ideas, ask questions, and talk respectfully with family and friends. It is also important to check where information comes from before sharing it online.

Elections are one way people participate in democracy. Midterms may not include a presidential race, but they still help shape the country's future. Understanding how they work now can help you become a more informed voter when you are old enough.