The Associated Press is preparing comprehensive coverage of the 2026 midterm elections set for November 3, positioning itself as the central data provider for major U.S. news networks on election night. All major broadcast networks — ABC, CBS, and NBC — along with most major cable networks including Fox and CNN will rely on AP data to call races and report results for the first time since 2016, according to an October 2025 announcement.
This unified approach marks a significant consolidation in election coverage infrastructure. In 2024, ABC, CBS, CNN and NBC had worked with Edison Research for election data, while Fox used AP’s data and NewsNation leveraged Decision Desk HQ. The shift to a single vendor reflects confidence in the AP’s election methodology and track record.
The AP’s election operation has expanded significantly to meet demand. In January 2026, the organization created a standalone business unit dedicated to growing its elections business, and the company has witnessed a 30% increase in customers over the last presidential cycle. This growth reflects the critical role the AP plays in election reporting across the media landscape.
The scale of the AP’s election night operation is substantial. During the 2024 election, the AP deployed more than 5,000 people — a record in the company’s 178-year history of calling elections. The organization counted the vote and declared winners in nearly 7,000 races with a 99.9% accuracy rate, demonstrating the precision required for real-time election coverage.
To serve this expanded footprint, the AP offers multiple solutions for news organizations covering the 2026 midterms. Vote Count provides results data and graphics for national, state and local elections; Elections Pro supplies candidate photos, map files and digital voter guides; and The Voter Poll surveys the electorate to provide context on voting motivations. These tools allow news outlets of varying sizes to deliver comprehensive election coverage to their audiences.
The AP’s role in election coverage extends beyond the November 2026 midterms. The organization is already preparing for the 2028 presidential election, with all major networks committed to using AP data for that cycle as well. The shift to a unified data vendor positions the AP as the authoritative source for election results across the U.S. media ecosystem, streamlining how Americans receive and understand election night outcomes.
Sources
- Axios — reported that all major broadcast and most major cable networks will use AP data for 2026 and 2028 elections; confirmed this is the first time since 2016 all networks will use the same vendor; noted AP’s 30% customer increase and 2024 accuracy rate of 99.9%
- AP.org — described AP Elections solutions (Vote Count, Elections Pro, The Voter Poll) and the creation of a standalone elections business unit in January 2026
- Britannica — confirmed the 2026 midterm elections are scheduled for November 3, 2026, and will determine control of both chambers of Congress
