# How to vote in 2026 midterms

> 2026 midterms: mail ballots, drop boxes, and polling places explained.
- Title: How to vote in 2026 midterms · Mashable | Shortify
- Summary: 2026 midterms: mail ballots, drop boxes, and polling places explained. Over 51 million Americans voted in 2026 midterms with mail ballots and drop boxes…
- Keywords: 2026 midterm elections, vote by mail, drop box voting, polling locations, voting deadlines, us elections, congress elections, technology, culture, vote, 2026, midterms
- Source: Mashable — https://mashable.com/life/how-to-vote-2026-midterm-elections
- Author: Chase DiBenedetto
- Published: 2026-11-02T19:50:31+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: 2026 midterm elections, vote by mail, drop box voting, polling locations, voting deadlines, us elections, congress elections, technology, culture
## 2026 midterm elections
The Nov. 3 midterm elections will determine Congress makeup and President Trump's remaining years in office.
## Mail ballot voting
Over 51 million Americans voted by mail in 2026 with eight states offering universal mail-in voting.
## Mail ballot deadlines
Mail ballots must be postmarked by or on election day to avoid being voided.
## Drop box locations
15 states have drop boxes at libraries, parks, and other locations for ballot drop-off.
## States with drop boxes
California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, New Jersey, Nevada, Maryland, Michigan, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Virginia, Washington have drop boxes.
## States without drop boxes
Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia prohibit drop boxes.
## In-person voting
Voters can cast ballots in person up to one month before election day in some states.
## Key takeaway

Over 51 million Americans voted in 2026 midterms with mail ballots and drop boxes available in 15 states.