Early voting surges past 43 million as US midterms near in 3 days, polls show

Democrats lead national polling

RealClearPolling’s latest average puts Democrats at 51.4 percent in the national congressional ballot, compared with 43.2 percent for Republicans. The gap is 8.2 percentage points. Expectations for Senate control appear closer: 39 percent expect Democrats to hold a majority, while 36 percent expect Republicans to do so. Kondik said a substantial Democratic advantage in House polling points to the chamber likely changing hands.

Early voting draws crowds

Reports described continued lines at polling places as early voting neared its end in Texas, and long queues in Atlanta. Torres also reported greater participation among young voters. One young voter credited social and other media with bringing voting into the public eye.

Candidates make final appeals

Trump campaigned in Florida on Friday, where Republicans are defending Senate and governor positions. He urged supporters not to become overconfident, telling the crowd, “You got to vote.” Trump’s planned Sunday appearances in Kansas and Iowa were briefly set to be canceled, but the White House later confirmed both would proceed. He is expected to back Ashley Hinson in Iowa and appear with Senator Roger Marshall in Kansas.

In Texas, Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico focused their final efforts on Houston, according to Lavelle. Former President Bill Clinton campaigned for Democrats in Mississippi, while Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear was set to join Ohio governor candidate Amy Acton at an event.

Senate races remain uncertain

An Emerson College poll cited in the report gives Hamilton 49 percent support and Marshall 45 percent. The article does not identify Hamilton by a first name or specify the race in that poll.

Alaska’s Senate contest is one of seven key toss-ups that could determine whether Republicans retain their majority in the chamber. Early turnout totals, however, do not reveal candidate choices or the eventual outcome.