Document Type

Paper

Publication Date

11-3-2026

Abstract

This study examines online discourse surrounding the 2026 U.S. midterm elections to identify which political actors received the greatest visibility, what emotions characterized election-related conversations, and how sentiment developed within partisan online spaces. Using data collected through Brandwatch and Tweet Binder, the analysis draws on more than 1.69 million online mentions and a sample of 35,000 X posts between September and October 2026. Findings indicate that Trump- and Republican-related narratives dominated online visibility, accounting for substantially more discussion than Democratic-related content. However, heightened visibility did not correspond with positive sentiment. Fear emerged as the predominant emotional response, representing over half of emotion-classified mentions. Negative emotions, including fear, sadness, disgust, and anger, collectively represented 93% of emotion-categorized mentions. Thematic analysis further revealed concerns about electoral defeat, democratic stability, economic consequences, and future policy directions. Results suggest that online election discourse was shaped less by partisan support than by political uncertainty, controversy, and perceptions of high electoral stakes.

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