Absentee Ballot Request for US-based and Overseas Voters Abroad, Election Dates / Deadlines, and How to Vote in your State

Think of primaries as a way to narrow down the field of candidates to those who will ultimately appear on the ballot in the general election. A primary election permits voters to decide which candidates for office will become the parties’ nominees in an upcoming general election. During primary elections, we collectively winnow down pools of candidates, the winners of which are voted on for office in the general election.

What's at stake in the general election: All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, and a varying number each midterm of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate, plus handfuls of other state offices and ballot measures.

What is a Midterm Election?

U.S. Presidents hold office for 4-years at a stretch. This is referred to as a four year “term” in office.

A “midterm” election is therefore defined as an election that takes place halfway through the 4-year Presidential term, i.e. in the middle of the 4-year term.

Hence what is referred to as a “midterm” election. It's an election 2 years after the Presidential election. The midterm elections happen across all states, and they are for offices other than that of the President or Vice President.

Who Gets Your Vote and What Do They Do? Election Season: What’s at Stake?

As the upcoming election approaches, voters across the country are preparing to cast their ballots for a variety of elected officials. While presidential races often attract the most attention, other positions—like state and municipal level officials—hold critical roles in shaping our government and everyday lives.

Understanding who these officials are, how they differ from federal level senators, congresspersons, and representatives, and what they do is key to making an informed decision at the polls.