Midterms conclude without widespread disruption
Justice Department actions drew criticism but did not derail the midterm elections, which proceeded smoothly.
From left, Wren Peterson, Travis Peterson and Tristen Peterson vote at the Hope Retreat Center on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2026, in Hope, Alaska. AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson (Photo via The Conversation)
The 2026 U.S. midterm elections concluded on Nov. 3, 2026, following a period of intense legal scrutiny regarding the role of the Department of Justice in the voting process. Despite concerns from state and local officials about potential interference, the administration of the election proceeded without widespread chaos.
The election cycle involved contests for all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and 35 seats in the U.S. Senate. Leading up to the vote, the Trump administration engaged in multiple legal battles concerning its authority to monitor elections and challenge voter rolls. Federal courts were frequently called upon to intervene in disputes over these administrative actions.
U.S. District Judge James Boasberg criticized the Department of Justice during the lead-up to the election, stating the agency was attempting to browbeat states into removing individuals from voter rolls. Another federal judge noted that if the executive branch could threaten an ongoing election based on unproven allegations, the integrity of the democratic process would be at risk.
David Becker of the Center for Election Innovation and Research characterized the federal government's posture as that of an adversary rather than a collaborator to local election officials. While reports emerged of unusual inquiries from federal monitors in locations such as Bernalillo County, New Mexico, officials confirmed that these actions did not result in systemic disruption.
As of Nov. 4, 2026, election results are being finalized. Reports indicate that House Democrats are expected to hold the majority in the 120th Congress and may initiate investigations into the actions taken by the Trump administration during the election period.