US midterm elections 2026: Barack and Michelle Obama urge Americans to vote as Trump faces crucial test

The final appeal before Election Day came from two familiar voices. Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama urged Americans to vote in Tuesday’s crucial midterm elections, warning that the country’s political direction could depend on whether citizens turn up at the ballot box.

In separate messages on X on Monday, the Obamas called for greater voter participation and grassroots mobilisation as Americans prepared to decide who controls Congress for the final two years of President Donald Trump’s administration. "All across the country, I’ve heard from folks who are sick and tired of what they’re seeing from politicians right now. This Election Day, we have the power to vote for the candidates who will bring about the change we need," Barack Obama wrote.

Michelle Obama made a direct appeal to voters, stressing that political change would require action rather than dissatisfaction alone. "This Election Day, you have the power to change the direction of this country. But nothing’s going to change if you don’t vote," she said.

She also urged Americans to help friends, relatives and neighbours reach polling stations, adding: "So I want you to reach out to everyone you know. Help your family members make a plan to vote. Drive your neighbours to the polls. Text your friends until they show you their 'I Voted' sticker. And if anybody gives you any attitude, tell them Michelle told you to vote! Your community, your state, and our entire country needs every single one of you to cast a ballot on November 3. We’re counting on you!"

US midterm elections 2026: What is at stake for Donald Trump?

The elections are the first nationwide electoral test of Trump’s second presidency. Voters are choosing all 435 members of the House of Representatives, 35 of the 100 senators and 36 governors.

Republicans currently control both chambers of Congress, but their majorities are narrow. The outcome will determine whether Trump can continue advancing his legislative agenda with support from lawmakers in both houses or face a Democratic-controlled Congress for the remainder of his term.

According to Reuters, Democrats are favoured to win back the House, while the Senate contest remains more uncertain. The party needs a net gain of four seats in either chamber to take control. In the Senate, Republicans currently hold a 53-47 advantage, counting the two independents who caucus with Democrats.

Why a Democratic victory could change Trump's final two years

A Democratic takeover of the House would give the party control of key committees, greater influence over federal spending and the ability to intensify congressional investigations into the administration. It could also complicate the White House's efforts to secure funding for policies, including its approach to the conflict involving Iran.

Control of the Senate carries a different set of consequences. It would give Democrats greater authority over the confirmation of Cabinet nominees and federal judges, limiting the administration's ability to fill key positions without their support.

For Democrats, however, the Senate presents a tougher challenge. Several competitive races are in states that Trump won in the 2024 presidential election, making a change in control far from certain.

Trump makes the midterms a referendum on his presidency

Trump has repeatedly urged supporters to treat the elections as a verdict on his administration, even though his name is not on the ballot. A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on November 2 put his approval rating at 32%, close to the lowest level recorded during his presidency. The survey also found Democrats leading Republicans by eight percentage points on the congressional ballot.

Polling stations in the first states are scheduled to close at 6 pm Eastern Time on Tuesday. However, close contests and differences in state vote-counting procedures mean the final outcome in some races could take days to emerge.

For Trump, the results will determine how much room he has to govern. For Democrats, they offer an opportunity to regain congressional power. And for voters, the choice will help shape the political direction of the United States until the next presidential election.

(With inputs from ANI)