WASHINGTON - The NAACP today recognized the historic voter turnout, underscoring the decisive role Black voters played in the 2026 midterm elections, helping shape outcomes across the country and once again demonstrating the unmatched power of civic participation.

From major cities to rural communities, Black voters turned out in strong numbers, helping advance candidates and ballot measures focused on protecting democracy, expanding economic opportunity, safeguarding fundamental rights, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people it serves.

As election results continue to be finalized, one outcome is already clear: Black voters showed up.

"Once again, Black voters have proven that we are not bystanders in this country, we are its builders," said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. "The Trump Administration tried every trick in the book to block voters from the polls, but we showed up and showed out, and we voted. This election's outcomes are not the finish line. They're a reminder that we the people have the power. And keeping that power requires us to vote, hold elected officials accountable, and fight for our freedom."

Throughout the election cycle, the NAACP's multi-million dollar GOTV program engaged voters through organizing, voter education, grassroots outreach, digital engagement, leadership development, and Election Protection efforts. Working alongside local branches, youth leaders, faith partners, coalition allies, and 52,000+ volunteers, the organization encouraged participation in communities of color.

According to preliminary reports from NAACP organizers across the country, Black voters and volunteers played a critical role in determining outcomes in key federal, state, and local races while helping elevate issues that directly impact the health, safety, and economic well-being of their communities.

"The story of this election is not just about who won," said Dominik Whitehead, Chief of Field for the NAACP. "It's about the Black wave of voters who understood what was at stake and made their voices heard. People stood in long lines, overcame obstacles, and remained committed to their communities. Their participation helped shape the direction of this country, and it demonstrated the strength of grassroots organizing when it is rooted in trust, relationships, and local leadership."

The efforts of Black voters led to many historic victories, such as Keisha Lance-Bottoms in Georgia, the first Black woman to be elected Governor; Melat Kiros in Colorado, a Black woman and the first Gen Z woman elected to Congress; David Crowley in Wisconsin, the state's first Black governor; Aaron Ford in Nevada, the state's first Black governor; Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, the first Muslim American ever elected to the U.S. Senate, and so many more.

In the lead-up to Election Day, Black early and absentee voting ran well ahead of 2022 in states like Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Michigan. Increases in early and absentee voting ranged from +20% in Georgia to +53% in Texas compared with the same point in 2022. Estimated ballot return rates were up in every state, led by Texas (+17.3 points). In Texas, Florida, and Georgia, all of the growth came from early in-person voting, as mail ballots have declined (note that this does not include Election Day data). And in states like Mississippi, reports on the ground show the tremendous Black voter turnout that overwhelmed polling places in many parts of the state.

Across the country, one thing is clear: when Black communities organize, we win.

The NAACP emphasized that meaningful progress depends on more than Election Day victories. The Association called on elected leaders at every level to honor the voices of voters by advancing policies that protect civil rights, strengthen economic opportunity, expand access to quality education and healthcare, safeguard voting rights, and address the persistent inequities facing Black communities nationwide.

As a nonpartisan organization, the NAACP supports policies, not politicians, and is committed to holding all elected officials accountable regardless of party affiliation.

For more information on how the NAACP turned out and protected voters during the 2026 Midterm Elections, NAACP.org/vote.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.