Americans will be able to follow the 2026 US midterm election results through live television coverage, streaming services, news websites and digital platforms on November 3. Major networks, including CBS, NBC, CNN and Fox News, are preparing extensive coverage as voters decide the balance of power in Congress.
The midterm elections will include contests for all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats. Voters will also choose governors in 39 states, making the election an important political event across the country.
For viewers who want to follow the results without cable television, several networks are offering online streaming options, while dedicated election dashboards will provide updates as votes are counted.
When Are the 2026 US Midterm Elections?
The 2026 US midterm elections will take place on Tuesday, November 3. Poll closing times will vary depending on the state, meaning election results will arrive at different times throughout the evening.
The first major poll closures are scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, followed by additional states at 7:30 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET.
California and several western states will close their polling locations later in the evening. Alaska will be among the last states to close its polls.
Close races may take longer to call because election officials must count outstanding ballots and review the results before final outcomes can be confirmed.
How to Watch 2026 Midterm Election Results Live
Viewers can follow election night through traditional television channels or online streaming services. Major US broadcasters are preparing dedicated programming with live reporting, political analysis and real-time election updates.
CBS News
CBS News will present its special election coverage, titled “America Decides: Election 2026,” beginning at 7 p.m. ET on November 3.
The coverage will be led by Tony Dokoupil and Norah O’Donnell, with contributions from Gayle King, Margaret Brennan and other CBS News journalists.
People without cable can watch CBS News 24/7 through the CBS News website, its free mobile and connected-TV apps, YouTube and supported streaming platforms. Paramount+ will also provide access to coverage.
NBC News and Peacock
NBC News will offer extended election coverage through its “Decision ’26” programming, beginning at 5 p.m. ET on November 3.
The network plans 13 hours of continuous coverage, with journalists reporting from key states and providing updates on major House, Senate and gubernatorial races.
Peacock subscribers will also get an election-night multiview experience beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET. It will combine NBC News NOW, Steve Kornacki’s election analysis and a live results board on one screen.
CNN
CNN will provide live election reporting, analysis and results across its television network, website and mobile applications.
The network’s election coverage will begin on November 3, with reporters stationed across key states to follow important races and voter developments.
CNN subscribers can also access special election programming through its All Access subscription, including live coverage and additional digital content.
Fox News
Fox News will offer election-night coverage through Fox News Channel, Fox News Digital and its streaming platforms.
Its special programming, “Fox News Democracy ’26,” will begin at 6 p.m. ET on November 3, with Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum leading the coverage.
Viewers can also follow election updates, race calls and political analysis through the Fox News website and mobile application.
Other Ways to Follow Live Election Results
Television is not the only option for people following the 2026 midterm elections. Several digital platforms and independent election data providers will offer additional ways to track the vote count.
Associated Press: The Associated Press will provide election results, race calls and reporting through APNews.com and the AP News app. Its election coverage will include updates from reporters across the country.
Decision Desk HQ: The election data provider will offer live results and analysis, including updates through its digital platforms and Discord channel.
C-SPAN: Viewers can follow extensive election-night programming through C-SPAN’s website and YouTube channel.
YouTube: Several major news organizations, including CBS News, NBC News and Fox News, will provide digital video coverage and election updates through their official YouTube channels.
Can You Watch the 2026 Midterm Elections Without Cable?
Yes. People who do not have a traditional cable television subscription can still follow much of the election coverage online.
CBS News offers free streaming through its website and supported apps. NBC News also provides digital coverage through NBC News NOW, while viewers can access CNN and Fox News content through their respective platforms.
Streaming services such as Peacock, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV and DIRECTV may provide access to live news channels, depending on the subscription plan and location.
Availability, channel access and subscription requirements can differ between services. Viewers should check their provider’s current lineup before election night.
When Will the 2026 Midterm Election Results Be Available?
Initial results are expected to emerge after polling locations begin closing on November 3. However, there is no single nationwide time when all election results will be available.
Some races may be called relatively quickly, while closely contested contests could require additional counting and verification.
Alaska’s ranked-choice voting system may also delay final results in its Senate race. The state’s complete ranked-choice results are expected on November 18, after eligible ballots have been reviewed and counted.
News organizations will continue updating their election dashboards as official results become available.
