More than 53 million Americans have already voted, according to the University of Florida|Tom Arthur|CC BY-SA 2.0

Americans head to the polls today to decide which party will control Congress. Voters across the US will also elect governors in several states.

More than 53 million Americans have already voted, according to the University of Florida. Around 29 million people voted early in person, while another 23 million cast their ballots by mail. Together, the total exceeds the 46 million early votes recorded in 2022.

It’s a battle for control of Congress
Republicans currently control both the House and Senate, but their lead is small. They hold 218 seats in the House compared with Democrats’ 214, while the Senate is split 53–47 in their favor.

Recent polls indicate that Democrats could win back control of the House. The Senate race is less predictable, with 35 seats up for grabs.

Key issues beyond Congress
The choices on the ballot extend beyond candidates and elected office. Voters will also decide on proposals addressing some of the most consequential issues in their communities and states, including abortion rights, voting requirements, redistricting, taxes and government powers.

California wealth tax: A proposed 5% one-time tax on billionaires has triggered strong opposition in California.

Redistricting: Voters in Maryland and Missouri will weigh redistricting proposals that could reshape their congressional maps and influence the narrow balance of power in the US House.

Abortion: More than four years after the fall of Roe v. Wade, abortion rights remain a key ballot issue. Missouri voters will consider repealing existing constitutional protections, while Idaho and Virginia will vote on measures to protect abortion access.

Data centers: Over 40 proposals target data center expansion amid the AI boom.

Though results are expected to start trickling in as early as 6 p.m. ET on the East Coast on Tuesday, legal challenges are expected. The Supreme Court on Monday turned down the Trump administration’s bid to separate up to 20,000 California mail-in ballots allegedly cast by noncitizens. A federal judge also ruled against the administration’s attempts to challenge Alaska’s Senate race because of two candidates with the same name.