Midterm elections vs presidential elections: What’s the difference and which offices are on the ballot today?

Midterm elections vs presidential elections: Americans will not vote for president on November 3, 2026, but the midterm elections could still change the balance of power in Washington. Every seat in the House of Representatives is up for election, along with a portion of the Senate. Voters in dozens of states will also choose governors, while other ballots will include state and local races.

The difference between midterm and presidential elections is that only presidential elections include a vote for the White House. Midterms take place halfway through a president's four year term, giving voters a chance to decide who represents them in Congress and in other offices up for election.

What Is the Difference Between Midterm Elections & Presidential Elections

Presidential elections are held every four years, when Americans vote for president and vice president. Midterms happen two years after a presidential election, when the presidency itself is not being contested.


Congress remains central to both elections. All 435 voting seats in the House are up for election every two years, while Senate races depend on which terms are ending. State and local elections can also take place during either cycle.

Which Offices Are on the Ballot in the 2026 Midterm Elections

The November 3 elections will cover congressional seats and a range of state and local offices.

House of Representatives

All 435 voting seats in the House are up for election. House members serve two-year terms, so voters choose their representatives during both midterm and presidential election years. The results will determine which party controls the chamber.

Senate

Thirty-five Senate seats are up for election in 2026, including regularly scheduled races and special elections. Senators serve six year terms. So the entire 100 member chamber doesn't face voters at once.

Governors

Thirty-six states are holding gubernatorial elections this year. Voters in those states will choose who leads their state government.

State and local offices

The ballot may also include state legislative races, local offices and ballot measures. Depending on where they live, voters may be choosing state legislators, mayors, county officials or other local representatives. Some ballots will also include proposals affecting state or local laws.

The choices vary by location. Voters can check their sample ballot, contact their state or local election office to confirm which races and questions will appear on their ballot.

Which Offices Are on Ballot in a Presidential Election

A presidential election includes votes for president and vice president, alongside congressional races and any state or local contests scheduled for that year.

All 435 voting House seats are contested, while Senate elections cover the seats due for election. Governors, state lawmakers and local officials may also appear on the ballot, depending on their election schedules.

How Can Voters Check Which Offices Are on Their Ballot

Voters can visit their state or local election office's website to find candidates, sample ballots and ballot measures for their area. The federal government's voter information guide also explains how to find candidates and election information.

The 2026 midterms will decide who represents Americans in Congress and in many state and local offices and the next presidential election is scheduled for 2028.