What are the US midterms? A simple guide
Key Points:
- The US midterm elections on 3 November will determine control of Congress, impacting President Donald Trump's ability to pass legislation and serving as a measure of public approval of his presidency.
- All 435 House of Representatives seats and 35 of 100 Senate seats are up for election, alongside key state-level positions including governorships in major states like California and Florida.
- Key voter concerns include the economy, inflation influenced by international conflicts and trade policies, immigration enforcement, and the regulation of artificial intelligence technology.
- Republicans currently hold slim majorities in both chambers, but Democrats could gain control of one or both, potentially hindering Trump's legislative agenda and enabling investigations into his administration.
- The midterms also have implications for the 2028 presidential election, with Trump encouraging Republicans to vote as a show of support for his leadership despite his name not being on the ballot.