Early voting has surged ahead of the November 3 midterm elections in multiple states with competitive U.S. Senate races, according to an Associated Press analysis released this week.

Texas has recorded nearly 1 million early ballots, a 74 percent increase over the same point in 2022. Kansas has more than doubled its early vote totals. Maine, North Carolina, and Ohio each show increases exceeding 30 percent in early in-person and mail ballots compared with 2022.

Nationwide, more than 13 million early and mail ballots have been cast across reporting states as of late October. In Texas, where in-person early voting began only recently, the pace has accelerated quickly in a contest between Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico.

North Carolina and Ohio, both hosting tight Senate races alongside other statewide contests, have seen strong participation. Virginia has also posted significant gains, with early totals nearly double those from four years ago in some areas.

Data from several states indicate Democrats hold an edge among early voters by party registration in places such as North Carolina, Iowa, and Pennsylvania. Analysts note, however, that early voting patterns do not always forecast final results, as Election Day voters often differ demographically.

The increased activity comes amid high-profile Senate contests that could shift the chamber's balance. Republicans currently hold a majority, and Democrats are targeting several Republican-held seats in battleground states.

Election officials in multiple states have expanded early voting access or reporting since 2022, contributing to the higher numbers alongside greater voter engagement. In-person early voting remains open in numerous battlegrounds through the end of October.

Total early ballots cast nationwide stand well above 2022 midterms at comparable dates, reflecting broad interest in races that will help set the direction of Congress for the next two years.