For all the voters out there who are asking…
Presidential elections are held every four (4) years. And the next Presidential Election will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2028.
But in the meantime, this year - 2026 - is a “midterm” election year!
....and it is also vitally important: midterm elections decide the composition of Congress: the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. The balance of power in Congress determines the course of the President's agenda. Midterms come at the 2-year mark between presidential elections - and as a U.S. citizen abroad, or a military member, you can vote this year!
When are the 2026 Midterm Elections and What are Their Purpose?
Do Midterm Elections Affect the President?
In 2026, all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, plus 35 U.S. Senate seats will be decided across the states. These congressional lawmakers are extremely powerful. They control the legislative branch of our federal government. Although the source and mechanisms of their power are different, congress’ legislative branch wields incredible power and influence over the executive branch of the President. Congress can pass laws that the President agrees with, or decide to pass laws with which he does not agree. In this way, congress is instrumental to controlling the President’s agenda.
Back to the Question about the Next Presidential Election
After the midterm elections are in the rear view mirror, primary elections and/or caucuses are held in each state to assist the major political parties in deciding who will be their candidate for the office of President. These primaries/caucuses run from January to June of the presidential election year.
In some states, only voters who are affiliated with a political party are able to participate in the “primary election.” This is known as a “closed primary." It is not uncommon that in order to vote in the primary election, states or parties require voters to be affiliated with a political party and vote for only those candidates.
There are other types of primary elections, however, such as “open primaries,” in which voters can choose which party's ballot they want to vote, regardless of their own party affiliation. Be sure you are aware of the type of primary held in your state so you can be prepared ahead of time.
Learn About the 5 Types of Primaries and Which Type is Implemented in Your State
Once the primary elections are completed, the main or “general” election is held. As mentioned, the next general Presidential Election will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2028. All general elections are “open” and do not require voters to be affiliated with a political party in order to vote.
To be ready for this next Presidential Election, you will want to determine the steps needed to vote in the primary and general election (starting with registration and ending with confirming your vote has been counted). U.S. Vote Foundation has made this process quick and effortless with an entertaining gadget called the Voter Journey Map!
The Voter Journey Map (VJM) enfuses the voting process with a sense of confidence and joy! The VJM is an interactive application that takes you through the steps that apply to your unique circumstances and creates a tailored plan for how to vote in any election. In less than 5 minutes, you will have a map and list of custom resources to lead you to Election Day from beginning to end. Click the image below to get started.
Find Your States Midterm Election Dates and Deadlines
And of course, also mark Tuesday, November 7, 2028 down on your calendar, because the next Presidential Election will be here before you know it, and get a head start on your preparations today!