10.31.2026

The U.S. election process centers on the distinction between midterm and presidential cycles, where voters select members of Congress to set policies on education, healthcare, and the economy. Political reporter Mark Curtis explains that while presidential terms span four years, midterm elections determine the control of the House and Senate, which currently operate on razor-thin margins. Negative advertising remains a dominant campaign strategy because it consistently captures voter attention more effectively than positive messaging. Beyond candidate qualifications, the election timeline faces potential delays; with one-third of the electorate utilizing mail-in ballots and many races decided by narrow margins, final results may not be confirmed for up to a week after Election Day. Ultimately, while political parties differ on the ideal size and scope of government, independent voters remain the critical force in determining election outcomes.