Analysts Identify Key Races With 99 Days Until US Midterms

The U.S. is 99 days away from the November 2026 midterm elections ^[1].

These contests will determine the balance of power in Washington, as a significant number of legislative seats are contested. The outcome will shape the legislative agenda for the remainder of the current administration's term.

Anthony Salvanto, the CBS News executive director of elections and surveys, and Kyle Kondik, the managing editor of Sabato's Crystal Ball, said the most consequential races were discussed Monday ^[1]. The analysts focused on the competitive nature of the current political landscape and which districts are likely to be the most contested.

All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are up for election ^[1]. Because every House seat is contested every two years, the total makeup of the chamber is subject to change based on national trends and local candidate quality.

In addition to the House, 35 Senate seats are up for grabs ^[1]. While fewer Senate seats are contested than House seats, these races are often more expensive and carry higher stakes due to the statewide nature of the elections.

Salvanto and Kondik said that while many races may seem settled, a small number of "toss-up" districts often decide which party holds the majority. These specific races typically draw the most funding, and attention from national party committees as the deadline approaches.

With less than 100 days remaining, campaigns are entering their final phase of voter outreach. The analysts said that the focus is now shifting toward mobilization and the final push to persuade undecided voters in swing districts.