2026 US midterms feature one of the most diverse candidate slates in years
The gist
The 2026 US midterms featured one of the most diverse slates of Democratic and Republican candidates in years.
Several candidates could become historic firsts in governorships and the Senate.
How it unfolded
- Jun 2, 2026Deb Haaland, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate, spoke at a primary election night watch party after winning the Democratic nomination in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Nov 3, 2026AP reported that diversity on the ballots means some candidates will make history, with 36 state governorships, 3 US territory governorships, 435 House seats and 36 Senate seats up for grabs.
- Nov 3, 2026In Illinois' 2nd Congressional District, Donna Miller, a Cook County commissioner and former healthcare executive, awaited results after winning the Democratic primary over candidates including Jesse Jackson Jr.; she faces Republican Mike Noack, a truck driver who has never run for political office.