Early in-person voting has begun for the 2026 midterm elections, which means the campaign has finally entered the phase where actual voters replace consultants explaining voters on television.
Virginia opened early voting Friday, with options also beginning in Idaho, Minnesota and South Dakota. More states will follow in the coming weeks before Election Day on November 3.
Control of Congress is on the ballot
Republicans hold narrow majorities in the House and Senate. Democratic gains could produce new investigations and stronger oversight of President Donald Trump during the final two years of his term.
Voters are weighing the cost of living, immigration enforcement, artificial intelligence and the continuing war involving the United States and Iran. Redistricting has also moved roughly one in ten Americans into a different House district since the previous election.
Officials say the systems are ready
Associated Press reported the start of early voting on September 18, 2026. Election administrators continue to emphasize that widespread noncitizen voting is not supported by evidence and that layered safeguards remain in place.
Voters using mail ballots should follow local instructions and allow extra delivery time. Gen X learned to return videotapes before late fees; we can handle checking a deadline on an official election website.
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Receipts, Rumors & Internet NonsenseDana reads the fine print, checks the timeline, and keeps one eyebrow permanently raised. She covers viral claims, internet pile-ons, and suspiciously convenient explanations.
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