Vote counting is under way across several U.S. states after polling stations closed, with Democratic candidates leading in preliminary results in key races, according to U.S. media reports.
Polling ended in parts of Vermont, Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Illinois and Alabama, as well as in some areas of Indiana and Kentucky.
Early results show Democrats leading in 73 House races, compared with 36 for Republicans. In the Senate, Democrats are leading in eight races, bringing their preliminary tally to 43 seats, while Republicans are ahead in one race, taking their tally to 31.
Three NASA astronauts also cast their ballots from space during the midterm elections. Anil, Luke and Jessica transmitted their electronic votes from the space station to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, demonstrating that Americans can exercise their right to vote even from orbit.
Polling began at 5 a.m. local time in Vermont and at 6 a.m. in New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Virginia.
All 435 House Seats and 35 Senate Seats at Stake
All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the Senate’s 100 seats are being contested.
Republicans currently hold 218 House seats, compared with 214 for Democrats. A party needs at least 218 seats to secure a majority in the chamber, whose members serve two-year terms.
In the Senate, Republicans hold 53 seats, Democrats 45, and two seats are held by independents. A simple majority requires 51 seats.
Muslim Candidates Compete in Midterm Elections
Muslim candidates are also contesting races across the country, with some facing direct challenges from political rivals and others competing against candidates from multiple parties.
Palestinian American Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib is seeking reelection in Michigan, where she faces four challengers. In California, Aisha Wahab is competing against fellow Democrat Melissa Hernandez.
Republican James Hooper and candidates from three other parties are also running against Tlaib.
The growing presence of Muslim candidates in American politics has added significance to several closely watched races.
