US midterms 2026: Polls open as Democrats target Republican majority

Polls have opened across the United States for the 2026 midterm elections, with President Donald Trump and the Republican majority facing a serious threat from a predicted Democrat "Blue Wave" in key states. The outcome will determine control of Congress and significantly impact Trump's presidency. Critical Senate races are underway in states including Alaska, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Georgia, where Democrats need to flip four Republican-held seats to gain a majority. President Trump announced a deal to end US military aid to Israel by the end of 2026, while a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit over Alaska's ballot integrity. Trump's approval rating is near a record low according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, though some surveys suggest the battle for Congress may be tightening. Polls will close progressively from 10am AEDT Wednesday, with final results from Alaska expected by 4pm AEDT.