The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact takes effect when states with a combined 270 electoral votes have joined. As of today, 18 states and D.C. with 222 electoral votes have signed on, leaving the compact 48 short.The 2026 midterms put the compact closer than it has ever been: Democrats will control the governorship and both legislative chambers in five states with 61 electoral votes that haven’t yet joined.If enough sign on, the 2028 election could be the first decided by the national popular vote.