The Youth Vote in 2026
Nearly 50 million young people (ages 18-29) are eligible to vote in the 2026 midterms—a major potential force in shaping electoral outcomes and the future of our democracy.
CIRCLE's research on young voters in 2026 highlights young people's political views, attitudes, and likelihood to participate. In addition to key insights from youth surveys, we share our exclusive Youth Electoral Significance Index rankings of the 2026 races where young voters can have a decisive impact on the outcome. Later in the cycle, we'll track state-by-state youth voter registration, and offer Election Night data on how young people showed up at the ballot box.
Our Latest 2026 Election Research
Where Young Voters Can Decide Elections in 2026
Youth Are Likely to Vote in 2026—But Want to See Big Changes in Democracy
49 Million Young People Will Be Eligible to Vote in the 2026 Midterms
CIRCLE and When We All Vote
Report: Youth Political Attitudes and Concerns in 2026
Ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, CIRCLE partnered with When We All Vote to release a national youth survey with key findings on young people's political views, party identification, issue priorities, and access to information.
Youth Vote Race Rankings
CIRCLE's 2026 Youth Electoral Significance Index (YESI) ranks the races where young voters can have the biggest impact in this November's U.S. Senate and gubernatorial elections. Rankings for U.S. House races are coming soon!
