ABC Moves Dancing with the Stars for Election Night
The network will shift the program to November 2 to accommodate its coverage of the 2026 midterm elections.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Elections
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Should major television networks prioritize election coverage over regularly scheduled entertainment programming?
ABC is rescheduling its season 35 broadcast of Dancing with the Stars from Tuesday, November 3, to Monday, November 2, 2026. This adjustment allows the network to prioritize its live election night coverage.
Why it matters
The change ensures that ABC can dedicate its primetime schedule on November 3 to comprehensive reporting on the midterm elections. This broadcast event will track results determining control of the House of Representatives and 36 governorships.
The 2026 midterm cycle features contests for 36 governorships and the balance of power in the House of Representatives. The network is moving its usual Tuesday night programming to November 2 to avoid schedule conflicts.
The players
ABC
The American Broadcasting Company is a major television network responsible for programming decisions and news operations.
The details
The rescheduled episode of Dancing with the Stars will maintain its scheduled Disney Night theme despite the shift in dates. This move allows for the full broadcast of ABC News Election Night: Vote 2026 on the evening of the midterm polls.
Timeline
Dancing with the Stars airs on November 2, 2026.
Midterm elections and the ABC election special occur on November 3, 2026.
Political Context
The programming shift reflects the broader industry standard of dedicating significant airtime to federal election reporting. Broadcasters typically prioritize these election night specials to align with voter interest in outcomes that shape national legislative priorities.
Viewers should adjust their recording schedules or viewing habits to accommodate the Monday broadcast. This change ensures consistent access to election results on November 3 without interruption from standard entertainment series.
The takeaway
Networks prioritize live coverage of election results when they involve shifts in federal and state leadership. Viewers can benefit from checking updated local television listings to ensure they do not miss planned entertainment or political programming.
Further reading
Follow the latest updates on the midterm cycle at the Elections section.
Live Poll
Should major television networks prioritize election coverage over regularly scheduled entertainment programming?
