The importance of midterm elections

There are three branches of government.

1. The executive branch (the president) relies on
2. the legislative branch (Congress) to pass legislation and confirm justices to
3. the judicial branch (Supreme Court).

The midterm elections determine which political party controls each chamber of Congress, based on who wins more of the individual races. 

Ultimately, the party that controls the House or the Senate can determine which issues Congress will consider and whether they will work with the White House on a legislative agenda.