US Midterm Elections 2022: Date, schedule, timings, ratings, opinion polls, exit polls, results; all that you need to know

US Midterm Elections 2022 are here and the polling is taking place on Tuesday, November 8 in the United States. Along with battles for governor and numerous ballot measures on important issues, like abortion and marijuana, the elections will determine which party will control Congress for the final two years of President Joe Biden's tenure.

For the next Congress that convenes in January, elections are being held for 35 U.S. Senate seats. Control of the parliament, which is currently evenly divided between the parties, could depend on a few close battleground state elections. There will be a general election for all 435 U.S. House seats; Democrats presently enjoy a slim five-seat advantage. Governors will be chosen by 36 state voters.

Let's deep dive into finding answers to fundamental questions thrown around during election season in the United States of America. What are midterm elections, when to vote, how is US Senate race assessed, who is up for election, citizens' opinions and a lot more.

WHAT ARE MIDTERM ELECTIONS?

The midterm elections are held midway through the current US president’s time in office. These elections will shape Congress, governors, and other offices until the next presidential election in 2024.

US Midterm elections 2022 will decide on all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 seats in the Senate – the two institutions that make up Congress.

WHEN IS THE VOTING DAY?

Election Day 2022 is on November 8. It is held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November every other year.

A 'TIEBREAKER' VOTE IN THE SENATE

The vice president of the US also serves as the president of the Senate. And if there is a tie, VP Kamala Harris can cast her 'tiebreaking' vote to help determine the outcome.

OPINION POLLS, RATINGS: WHO IS GAINING OR LOSING GROUND?

Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll: US president Joe Biden's approval dips to 39%, which is closer to the lowest level of his term just two weeks before midterm polls.

USA TODAY poll: Democrats led 44%-40% against Republicans.

Generic ballot (party names): The respondents support the Republican congressional candidate over the Democratic contestant by 49%-45%.

FIVE KEY STATES TO WATCH OUT FOR IN THE US SENATE RACE

Georgia: Democrat Raphael Warnock Vs Republican Herschel Walker
Pennsylvania: Democrat John Fetterman vs Republican Mehmet Oz
Arizona: Democrat Mark Kelly Vs Republican Blake Masters.
Nevada: Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto Vs Republican Adam Laxalt
Wisconsin: Democrat Mandela Barnes Vs Republican Senator Ron Johnson

WHEN WILL THE RESULTS BE OUT?

Going by the previous trends, announcement of results can be expected within 24 hours for most of the seats.

FAQs

1. What will the US midterm polls decide?
   US Midterm elections 2022 will decide on all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 seats in the Senate.
2. Will midterm elections impact the 2024 vote?
   The midterms will give an indication of how the president Joe Biden's administration is fairing, and the public’s attitude towards the US president.