More than 42 million Americans cast early midterm ballots

More than 42 million Americans have already cast their ballots in the 2026 midterm elections, according to reports from WBTV, NBC12, and WITN. Election Day is set for Tuesday, November 3.

The University of Florida Election Lab indicates that early turnout is comparable to the 2018 midterms, which saw a significant surge in voter participation known as the 'blue wave.' The lab notes that enthusiasm currently appears stronger among Democrats.

University of Florida political scientist Michael McDonald said the United States could be on track for record voter turnout, potentially surpassing the 2018 rate, which was the highest midterm turnout since 1914. However, turnout patterns vary by party affiliation.

McDonald explained that registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters are more engaged in early voting, while registered Republicans are less so. Democrats represent 44% of early votes, compared to about 31% for Republicans. Early voting has also increased among young voters and minority groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans.

There are limitations to the data, as some states do not require party registration or emphasize early voting. States like Maine, Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska have lower early voting rates compared to vote-by-mail states or those with high in-person early voting.

While Democrats hold an early lead in early voting, McDonald expects Republicans to gain some ground on Election Day. Official results will be announced after polls close on November 3.