Midterm elections occur every two years in the United States and involve state governors, congressmen, and local elected positions. They are a litmus test for the incumbent president’s effectiveness as a leader of their political party and can provide glimpses into the future.
Midterm elections occur in the middle of a president’s term, hence the name midterm. While presidential elections are held every four years in the United States, general elections for other positions are held every two years. These elections usually involve state governors, state and federal congressmen, and a variety of local elected positions, such as county commissioners, city councilors, and judges. Since US Senators have a 6-year term, their re-election campaigns usually take place during this time as well.
Non-presidential elections are often seen as a litmus test for the incumbent president’s effectiveness as a leader of a political party. A popular Democratic president, for example, may use his popularity to support the campaigns of Democratic candidates during the midterm elections. An unpopular president, however, may not be able to provide much political impetus to his party. Very close races may hinge on public perceptions of the Republican and Democratic parties, not necessarily the local elections themselves.
Some midterms have become legendary. When former President Clinton was elected in 1992, many political analysts saw it as an indictment of the failed economic policies of previous Republican administrations. The ruling Democratic party, backed by a popular president, was expected to win many of the 1994 elections. Instead, a revitalized Republican party, led by Senator Newt Gingrich, managed to regain control of Congress. The 1998 election wasn’t quite as dramatic, but the 1994 Republican reversal of fortunes is still seen as a remarkable comeback.
Even the midterm elections can be considered glimpses into the future. An incumbent president seeking re-election might feel strengthened if his political party gains strength during this election. If his party has suffered significant losses at the polls, however, it could be a sign that changes in policy or public perception are needed. The leaders of both political parties keep tabs on the election results and use this information to formulate a winning strategy for their presidential candidates.
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