According to University of Florida Election Lab data cited on October 27, 2026, over 30 million early ballots had been cast nationwide, including 15.1 million by mail and 15.5 million in person

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.