Early Voting Begins for U.S. Midterm Elections

In-person voting for the 2026 midterm elections started on Friday, September 18, marking the beginning of six weeks where Americans will decide who leads Congress. Key issues driving voter decisions include rising living costs, the ongoing war in Iran, and concerns about artificial intelligence.

Election officials are prepared to ensure accurate and secure voting. However, President Donald Trump continues to challenge election processes through legal battles, efforts to find non-citizen voters, and pressure on states to share voter data.

Early voting has begun in Virginia, while other states like Idaho, Minnesota, and South Dakota allow in-person absentee voting. More states will start early voting soon.

The November 3 elections will determine control of Congress, with most states also voting for governors and state legislatures. If Democrats regain Congress, it could lead to investigations into Trump’s presidency.

This election comes during a time of uncertainty for many Americans due to economic pressures and geopolitical tensions. It also follows changes in congressional districts after mid-decade redistricting, affecting millions of voters.

Efforts to influence election rules are expected to continue ahead of the 2028 elections, following a Supreme Court ruling that weakened protections against discriminatory voting laws.

Despite Trump’s claims of widespread non-citizen voting, research shows it is rare. Experts warn of ongoing attempts to spread disinformation about elections.

Voting rights groups encourage early voting, especially by mail, due to concerns about postal service delays. Many states are reassuring voters that the election process remains secure and fair.

Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon urged voters to ignore false claims and trust the system, emphasizing that elections remain free, fair, and honest.