Live coverage of the 2026 midterm elections will begin at 6 p.m. EST on Tuesday, November 3, as voters head to the polls to influence the final years of President Donald Trump’s administration, despite him not being on the ballot this year.
According to the latest PBS News/NPR/Marist poll, Democrats have gained an 8-point lead among likely voters leading up to Election Day, focusing on issues such as affordability and the Iran War that resonate with many Americans. This election is seen as a critical opportunity for voters to reflect on how Trump’s policies are impacting their lives.
Despite low approval ratings, Trump is actively campaigning across the country, visiting states such as Kansas, New York, and Alaska to rally support for Republican candidates. His goal is to maintain a Republican majority in both chambers of Congress, especially in traditionally Republican-leaning areas.
As the elections approach, officials are preparing for potential disruptions, with the Justice Department planning to deploy 1,000 election monitors nationwide. Trump has previously expressed unfounded claims regarding election integrity, including assertions about the 2020 election being rigged, and cast his vote in West Palm Beach, Florida, more than a week prior to Election Day.
How to Watch PBS’ Election Night Coverage
PBS News’ live special coverage can be viewed online or via local PBS stations. Co-anchors Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett will host the event, joined by analysts and campaign strategists who will provide insights throughout the evening.
The panel of experts includes:
- Amy Walter, editor-in-chief of The Cook Political Report
- David Brooks, staff writer at The Atlantic
- Mo Elleithee, Democratic strategist and former DNC spokesperson
- Doug Heye, Republican strategist and former RNC spokesperson
- Kimberly Atkins Stohr, columnist at The Boston Globe
- Tiffany Smiley, former Republican U.S. Senate candidate
PBS News will also feature live American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation of the coverage. Viewers can find information about their local PBS stations or watch the coverage online.
On Election Day, PBS News will provide live state-by-state result maps and detailed breakdowns of key races, allowing viewers to stay informed about the election outcomes in real-time.
As the Associated Press prepares to call election results, approximately 4,000 journalists will collect data from voting precincts across the country. This year’s midterms will also see the AP implementing a new Voter Poll, enabling a deeper analysis of voter demographics and motivations in states with statewide elections.
