A Simple Guide to the US Midterms

There are four weeks to go until the US midterm elections, when voters will participate in a ballot that could significantly impact the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency. On November 3, Americans will choose members of Congress, which consists of two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. These elections occur every two years, and when they take place in the middle of the president's four-year term, they are referred to as the midterms.

A key responsibility of Congress is to create and pass federal laws that apply nationwide. The outcome of the midterms will determine which political party—Trump's Republicans or the opposition Democrats—controls Congress and how easily the president can implement his plans. The results are also viewed as a reflection of public sentiment regarding the president's performance thus far.

All 435 members of the House, the lower chamber of Congress, will be elected, serving fixed terms of two years. The House is where proposed laws are introduced and debated. Additionally, 35 out of 100 seats in the Senate, the upper chamber, will also be contested. Senators serve six-year terms and are responsible for approving or blocking proposed laws received from the House.

On the same day, voters across much of the US will also elect state-level politicians. Governor contests in California, Florida, Georgia, and Michigan are expected to be among the most closely watched.

The US economy is a primary concern for many voters grappling with rising costs of fuel, groceries, housing, and healthcare. Inflation remains above the target set by the US Federal Reserve, partly due to the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran that began in February. Democrats argue that Trump's trade tariffs have also contributed to rising prices for Americans.