In the PBS News/NPR/Marist poll conducted Oct. 19-20, 2026, 71% of Democratic likely voters reported being very enthusiastic about voting in the 2026 midterms, compared with 61% of Republicans and 48% of independents

Federal and state elections held midway through a presidential term, deciding control of Congress and many governorships. Turnout falls well below presidential years and the president's party usually loses ground, which makes them a standing referendum on the sitting administration.