US Senate contenders split on whether they will accept 2026 midterm results

How candidates answered Reuters’ questions

In an October 15 inquiry, Reuters asked major-party candidates in competitive US Senate races whether they would accept the outcome of the November 3 midterm elections, regardless of who wins. Just over half gave a clear affirmative response in the reported sample; others offered conditions or avoided a straightforward commitment.

What this candidate sample does not show

The responses should not be confused with a poll of all American voters or an estimate of who will win. They represent answers from candidates contacted in selected races at a specific time, and the report does not establish that every person who qualified an answer intends to reject a lawful result.

Certified results and the democratic process

Acceptance of certified results can influence confidence in the democratic process. Claims about voting irregularities, if raised, need evidence and the established legal review process. The next substantive information will come from election administration and any properly documented court proceedings.

Sources and verification

Read the report and check for later revisions: Primary reporting source

Photo is an archival image, not a photo of this event.

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