US Midterms 2026
Why Turnout Usually Falls in a Midterm
Fewer people vote when there is no presidential race at the top of the ballot. Researchers explain why, and what changes it.
Issue 214
Reading the week closely: culture, food, ideas and the wider world.
World Editor
Daniel has reported from more than fifty countries and still believes the best story is usually two streets away from the press conference.
33 stories
Fewer people vote when there is no presidential race at the top of the ballot. Researchers explain why, and what changes it.
2 min read
The current term ends this December. The selection runs through the Security Council, and it has grown a little more open.
2 min read
Five permanent members can each stop a resolution. Here is what that power covers, and what it leaves untouched.
2 min read
Proportional voting produces coalitions, and coalitions need long negotiations. It is slower than it looks from outside, by design.
2 min read