2026 midterm elections
Politicians and strategists are actively discussing and campaigning for the upcoming US midterm elections. Events range from former officials and strategists analyzing electoral trends and the influence of money in politics to party conventions aimed at rallying support. Candidates are participating in primaries and special elections, with some winning nominations and others facing scrutiny over past statements. Key issues being discussed include the economy, immigration, and national identity, alongside significant policy proposals like a $5,000 dividend pledge. The races are being closely watched for their potential to shift the balance of power in Congress and shape the political landscape.
COVERAGE BY DAY
TIMELINE
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13 SEP
SUN
Trump proposes $5,000 dividend if Republicans win
Donald Trump proposed giving every adult American a $5,000 Trump dividend if Republicans win the midterm elections. The plan, which he suggested could be funded by tariffs, has drawn criticism from Democrats and some experts who called it a bribe or a stunt.
L17·C14·R11
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12 SEP
SAT
JD Vance speaks at Republican convention
Vice President JD Vance delivered remarks at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas. He focused on immigration, the economy, national identity, and the importance of the American Dream belonging to citizens. Vance also invoked the memory of Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated a year prior.
L1·C1·R1
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11 SEP
FRI
JD Vance speech at convention
Vice President JD Vance spoke at the Republican convention in Dallas, delivering a speech that focused on nationalistic priorities and drew contrasts with Democrats. His address sparked speculation about his 2028 presidential ambitions, with some supporters chanting 4848 and JD!. Vance also confronted a protester during the event.
C3
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Trump addresses first Republican midterm convention
Former President Donald Trump delivered a speech at the first-ever Republican midterm convention. He reiterated calls for voters to support Republican candidates in the upcoming elections and promised a $5,000 dividend to every adult American if Republicans retain control of the House and Senate.
L2
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Texas Senate candidate walks back gender statements
Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico has walked back previous statements regarding gender and divinity. Talarico previously stated there are six biological sexes and that God is non-binary, but now says he missed the mark with those assertions.
R2
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Helena Foulkes wins Rhode Island Democratic primary
Helena Foulkes, a former CVS executive, has won the Rhode Island Democratic gubernatorial primary. She defeated incumbent Governor Dan McKee with 62% of the vote to his 38%. Foulkes is now the favorite to win the general election.
L3
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10 SEP
THU
Trump and Vance speak at GOP midterm convention
Former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance delivered remarks at the Republican National Committee's midterm convention in Dallas, Texas. The event, held over two nights, aimed to rally supporters for the upcoming midterm elections. Trump emphasized his administration's accomplishments and criticized current Democratic leadership.
L11·C9·R5
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Speaker Johnson criticizes Democrats over socialism
House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the Democratic Party has been taken over by crazy far-left radicals and socialists. He criticized Democrats for voting against condemning communism and socialism, arguing that the party is no longer recognizable.
C2
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Fetterman appears at Republican convention
Senator John Fetterman delivered a surprise video message at the Republican midterm convention. Identifying as a common sense Democrat who rejects socialism and extreme views, Fetterman spoke in support of Republican Senator Dave McCormick.
L3·C2·R1
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23 AUG
SUN
Democrats eye expanded Senate majority
Democrats are expressing increased optimism about winning control of the Senate in the upcoming midterms. Polling experts Terrence Woodbury and Rachel Bitecofer have discussed a shift in key races to the left. The Cook Political Report has reclassified Senate races in Texas and Iowa as toss-ups.
L2
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14 AUG
FRI
Former Senator and Representative discuss midterm elections
Former Senator Tim Wirth (D-CO) and former Rep. Chris Shays (R-CT) discuss midterm elections. They also discuss the state of Congress and the influence of money in politics. The discussion includes the 2026 midterm elections.
C2
