(Undated) — Early voting is off to a strong start across much of the country ahead of the November 3rd midterm elections, with several key states reporting significant increases in voter participation compared with previous midterm cycles.
In Iowa, early voting began October 14. Voters are preparing to decide congressional races and other contests that could influence the state’s political direction. The election also comes as voters consider issues including the economy, inflation, and the direction of the federal government. Election tracking data shows Iowa has seen a 61-percent increase.
Georgia recorded a 40-percent increase in first-day early voting turnout compared with the 2022 midterms. More than 188,600 voters cast in-person ballots on the first day of early voting, setting a new first-day record for a midterm election in the state.
The trend extends to other competitive states. Early ballots cast in North Carolina and Maine are up 38-percent from the previous midterm cycle, while. Ohio’s in-person early vote has more than doubled, and Virginia is also reporting nearly twice the turnout compared with previous midterms.
The increased participation comes as control of Congress is at stake, with competitive races across the country potentially determining which party holds majorities in the U.S. House and Senate. Several states reporting increased early voting, including Iowa, Georgia, North Carolina, Maine, and Ohio, are home to closely watched congressional races.
However, higher early voting numbers do not necessarily predict election outcomes. Participation varies by state, and comparisons depend on when voting began, the types of ballots counted, and how many days are included in the totals.
Mail-in voting trends also differ from in-person participation in some states. Election officials and analysts will continue monitoring early ballot totals as more states report figures in the days leading up to Election Day.
The 2026 midterm elections will take place Tuesday, November 3rd. Voters nationwide will choose members of Congress, while numerous states will also hold gubernatorial, legislative, and local elections.
