Early voting begins in U.S. midterm elections that could flip control of Congress

Key Points:

• Early voting began Friday in Virginia and a few other states, with more expansive early voting scheduled in the coming weeks ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections that will decide control of Congress and state governments.
• Voters expressed strong motivations ranging from opposing former President Trump’s agenda to supporting local candidates, reflecting the high stakes of this election amid concerns about inflation, foreign conflicts, and election integrity.
• The midterm elections follow unprecedented mid-decade redistricting efforts initiated by Republicans, including Trump’s push in Texas, which have altered congressional districts for millions and are expected to continue after a Supreme Court ruling weakening federal protections.
• Trump’s administration has pursued federal control over election administration and challenged mail voting restrictions, but courts have rejected some of these efforts; meanwhile, Virginia’s attorney general is investigating alleged improper access to voter data by federal employees.
• Voting rights advocates encourage early voting to avoid potential mail delays and ease Election Day logistics, emphasizing that despite political tensions and disinformation, the election process remains secure and accessible.