2026 Midterm Early Vote Nears 54.5 Million as 23 States Surpass 2022 Totals
More than 54.5 million Americans have cast early ballots for the 2026 midterm elections, nearly matching the total from 2022. Twenty-three states have already exceeded their previous early voting records, with Texas leading at 138% of its 2022 total. High turnout is evident in competitive races across Georgia, Ohio, and Michigan, though final results remain pending.
Key points
- The University of Florida Election Lab reports 54.5 million early votes cast as of November 2, 2026, approaching 100% of the 2022 midterm early vote total.
- Twenty-three states have surpassed their 2022 early voting numbers, including Texas, Connecticut, Illinois, and Louisiana.
- Texas has cast more than 138% of its 2022 early vote total, with 7.7 million in-person ballots in a competitive Senate race between James Talarico and Ken Paxton.
- Georgia has cast over 2.8 million early ballots, representing 71% of its total 2022 turnout, in competitive races for Senate and governor.
- Ohio and Michigan have seen early turnout exceed or nearly match 2022 levels, with competitive races for governor and Senate seats.
Background
Previous coverage noted that early voting surpassed 50 million by November 1, driven by Democratic enthusiasm and dissatisfaction with current policies. Texas early voting hit a record 7.4 million by October 31, matching the 2018 peak, with urban areas driving late surges. National polls indicated Democrats leading by 8.4 points amid rising costs and an Iran conflict.
Why it matters
Early voting trends indicate high engagement in competitive states, suggesting intense battles for control of the Senate and House. While early votes do not determine final outcomes, the near-record turnout signals significant voter participation and potential shifts in congressional power.
What to watch
Election Day voting will conclude the 2026 midterms, with final results determining control of the Senate and House. States with high early turnout, such as Texas and Georgia, will see final tallies that could influence national political dynamics.
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