By — Joshua Barajas Joshua Barajas By — Bryan Gallion Bryan Gallion Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-live-election-night-2026-pbs-news-special-coverage Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter WATCH LIVE: Election night 2026 PBS News special coverage Politics Oct 30, 2026 1:42 PM EDT President Donald Trump might not be on the ballot, but this year's midterm elections will set the stage for the final years of his presidency. PBS News' live special coverage of the 2026 midterms will begin at 6 p.m. EST on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Watch in the player above. Democrats have been gaining ground with voters on issues such as affordability and the Iran War as Americans weigh how Trump-led policies are affecting their daily lives. In the final PBS News/NPR/Marist poll before Election Day, Democrats hold an 8-point lead among likely voters in the fight for control of Congress. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Enter your email address Subscribe Form error message goes here. Thank you. Please check your…
WATCH LIVE: Election night 2026 PBS News special coverage
In short
The upcoming midterm elections are poised to define President Donald Trump's legislative agenda as voters evaluate issues surrounding affordability and the ongoing Iran War. Polling indicates Democrats enter the contest with an advantage among likely voters, prompting intense late-stage campaigning across the country. Additionally, state authorities are preparing for oversight challenges as the Justice Department sends 1,000 monitors across all 50 states. Live coverage anchored by Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett will track real-time returns verified by thousands of Associated Press personnel.
Key points
- National midterm election results will decisively determine the balance of power in Congr…: National midterm election results will decisively determine the balance of power in Congress and the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency.
- Economic concerns regarding affordability alongside the Iran War are serving as primary d…: Economic concerns regarding affordability alongside the Iran War are serving as primary drivers for voters in this election cycle.
- Donald Trump cast his ballot early in Florida despite his repeated public criticisms of e…: Donald Trump cast his ballot early in Florida despite his repeated public criticisms of early voting procedures.