ABC’s coverage of the 2026 US midterm elections reached 1.4 million Australians, following a major electoral setback for President Donald Trump, with Democrats taking control of both the House and Senate.
The election saw Democrats take control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, flipping Republican-held seats across several traditionally conservative states, including Texas, Kansas, South Carolina and Iowa. The result has given Democrats greater power to scrutinise Trump’s administration, challenge his legislative agenda and block appointments.
It recorded a national reach of 1,463,000 and had an average audience of 388,000, placing sixth. A further evening update reached 846,000, with an average audience of 357,000.
Away from the election coverage, Seven’s The 1% Club UK had a national reach of 1,558,000 and an average audience of 930,000, landing fourth. The repeat episode continued the quiz show’s run on the Australian schedule, with contestants tackling questions designed to test how the wider population thinks.
Also on Seven, Home And Away followed with a national reach of 1,490,000 and an average audience of 1,024,000. The episode saw Richie double down on a lie, Mali struggle with the responsibility of fatherhood, and Dylan go above and beyond for Lacey.
Nine’s Tipping Point Australia recorded a national reach of 1,367,000 and an average audience of 736,000. Hosted by Todd Woodbridge, the game show featured three contestants competing for the opportunity to play for the jackpot.
10’s new season of Big Brother Australia recorded a national reach of 831,000 and an average audience of 451,000. The episode featured a surprise eviction, with 62-year-old Pam becoming the second housemate to leave the competition.
The eviction followed the introduction of a Mystery Button, which delivered “treats” including ice cream, a video call from home and an early birthday celebration for Phoebe. However, with seven housemates nominated, the button also triggered an unexpected eviction for the contestant who received the fewest votes to save. Pam’s departure was announced during a game of pass the parcel, leaving the remaining housemates speechless.
