Critics of voter ID laws and limits to mail-in voting argue that they reduce the likelihood people vote. Research in political science has found that this is not necessarily true. The biggest factor that determines whether people vote is their motivation to vote in the first place.

We spoke with UC Davis experts in history and political science about their worries and hopes for the 2026 midterm elections. Many shared a mutual concern that election results will be contested by either or both political parties. However, they also shared hopes that this election, whatever the results, would lead to a stronger nation and democracy.