A PBS News/NPR/Marist poll conducted October 19–20, 2026 found that likely voters favor Democratic candidates over Republicans 52% to 44% on the generic congressional ballot one week before the 2026 midterm elections

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.