National Popular Vote Interstate Compact gains momentum ahead of 2026 midterms

The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, an agreement first introduced in 2006, is seeing increased momentum as the 2026 midterm elections approach. The compact seeks to have state legislatures award presidential electors to the winner of the national popular vote, rather than the winner of the individual state's vote.

Currently, 18 states and the District of Columbia have joined the compact, totaling 222 electoral votes. The goal is to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold required to determine the presidency. Proponents argue that state legislatures hold the exclusive power under Article II, section 1 of the Constitution to award electors.

Analysts suggest that if Democratic-led trifectas are achieved in states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona during the 2026 midterms, the compact could reach 267 electoral votes. Additional participation from legislatures in states like Wisconsin or Nevada could push the total past the necessary 270 threshold. Critics, including the Honest Elections Project, argue that such a change should be achieved through a Constitutional amendment rather than an interstate compact.