US midterm elections 2026

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has signed a directive ordering the department to defend the 2026 midterm elections from foreign threats. The move puts the Pentagon formally behind election security preparations ahead of next year's vote. The announcement was published by the department and is drawing attention to how the military will be involved in countering foreign interference.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has signed a directive aimed at defending the 2026 United States elections from foreign threats. The move puts the defense department formally into election-security planning ahead of the midterm contests. The exact scope of the directive, which agencies will be involved, and what specific threats it targets have not been detailed, and reactions to the order have so far been limited.

Attention is turning to the 2026 US midterm elections and which party is positioned to win control of Congress. With no election results yet, coverage focuses on early indicators such as polling, fundraising and candidate recruitment. Observers are watching whether Democrats can gain seats or Republicans can hold their majorities in the House and Senate.