Over 21 Million Americans Cast Early Midterm Ballots

Nearly 21 million Americans have cast early ballots for the 2026 midterm elections, according to data from the University of Florida. Registered Democrats account for approximately 46% of these early votes, while Republicans represent 30% and independents 23%. Voters aged 65 and older make up about 52% of the early turnout.

University of Florida data indicates that turnout in several states is outpacing 2022 levels. In North Carolina, over 1.1 million people have voted, a 38% increase over the 2022 midterms. Missouri has also seen a surge, with Clay County recording nearly 6,000 check-ins during the first two days of no-excuse absentee voting. Unexpectedly high activity has emerged in Maine and Iowa, states that have not been major battlegrounds in recent cycles.

Political science professor Charles Stewart attributes the surge to voter enthusiasm and heavy campaign spending on retail politics and door-to-door mobilization. He notes that Democrats are increasingly using early in-person voting, which narrows their traditional advantage in mail-in ballots.

Democratic officials point to these figures and new Cook Political Report ratings, which show 19 seats shifting toward Democrats, as evidence of momentum. Simultaneously, President Donald Trump is campaigning for Republican candidates, including Senate nominee Ashley Hinson in Iowa and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds in Florida.