Millions of Americans headed to the polls on Tuesday in midterm elections that are expected to shape the country's political landscape during the final two years of President Donald Trump's second term. Republicans are seeking to maintain their control of Congress, while Democrats are hoping to regain a majority in the House of Representatives and the Senate, with voters focused on economic hardship, the rising cost of living and the war with Iran.

Voters are electing all 435 members of the House of Representatives and 35 members of the Senate, including two seats contested in special elections. Gubernatorial elections are also being held in 36 states. More than 57 million Americans had already cast their ballots before Election Day, reflecting strong early voter participation.

Republicans currently hold a narrow 218-214 majority in the House of Representatives and a 53-47 advantage in the Senate.

Democrats need net gains of at least four seats to take control of either chamber. Polls and political analysts suggest Democrats have a stronger chance of retaking the House, while the battle for the Senate is expected to be considerably tighter.

If Democrats regain control of the House, they would assume leadership of congressional committees and gain subpoena and investigative powers, allowing them to conduct broader oversight of the Trump administration's policies and executive actions.

A Democratic majority in the Senate would also have far-reaching consequences. It would directly affect confirmation votes on cabinet members, ambassadors and federal judges nominated by President Trump, potentially complicating the administration's legislative and judicial agenda during its remaining two years in office.

Because of the narrow margins in both chambers, even a small shift in seats could significantly alter the balance of power in Washington and influence the administration's ability to advance its priorities.

Throughout the campaign, inflation, the cost of living, healthcare expenses and the broader economy remained among voters' primary concerns.

The economic consequences of the war with Iran, particularly its impact on fuel prices and household budgets, also emerged as a major campaign issue, influencing races in several competitive districts.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll published ahead of the vote found Trump's approval rating at 32 per cent, close to the lowest level of his political career. The survey also showed Democrats leading Republicans on the generic congressional ballot by 46 per cent to 38 per cent, highlighting widespread voter dissatisfaction over inflation and economic conditions.

The midterm elections are also widely viewed as a referendum on the Trump administration's performance. The outcome will indicate the level of public support for the president's policies and determine how effectively his administration can govern during the remainder of his term.

Election procedures differ from state to state, meaning complete results are unlikely to become available immediately after polls close.

Mail-in ballots, closely contested races and different vote-counting rules could delay final outcomes in several battleground states. In some states, including Alaska and Maine, ranked-choice voting may require additional counting rounds, while California's large volume of mail ballots could also slow the process.

Although preliminary results will begin emerging after polls close, it could take several days before it becomes clear which party will control Congress.

Beyond determining the balance of power on Capitol Hill, the elections are expected to shape the political strategies of both Republicans and Democrats ahead of the 2028 presidential election, while also influencing President Trump's ability to pursue his legislative agenda over the next two years.(ILKHA)