Early Voting Surges Across States Ahead of Midterms

Early voting is surging across several states ahead of the 2026 midterms. North Carolina had nearly two million ballots cast, more than 521,000 ahead of the same point in 2022, while Louisiana reported over 520,000 ballots—nearly 40% above its 2022 total. Democrats lead early voting in both states, though Louisiana Republicans say Election Day turnout could shift the balance; campaigns and analysts are watching unaffiliated voters and turnout efforts. South Carolina is also reporting record early voting, and Sedgwick County, Kansas, has set a midterm record for in-person ballots. The elections feature major federal, state and local contests, as well as ballot measures and local issues.