US Midterm Elections: Democrats Take Control of Congress, Set Up Showdown With Trump

Democrats have secured control of both chambers of the United States Congress following major victories in the November 3 midterm elections, setting the stage for a potentially difficult final two years of President Donald Trump’s administration.

In the Senate, Democrats have secured at least 53 seats, including two independents who caucus with the party, compared with 41 seats for Republicans, while six races remain uncalled.

Among the major Democratic victories are James Talarico in Texas, Adam Hamilton in Kansas, Josh Turek in Iowa, Sherrod Brown in Ohio, Roy Cooper in North Carolina and Annie Andrews in South Carolina.

Democrats have also taken control of the House of Representatives after flipping more than two dozen districts previously held by Republicans.

The results mark a significant shift in the balance of power in Washington, giving Democrats greater influence over congressional investigations, legislation and oversight of the Trump administration.

While in the minority, Democrats repeatedly accused Trump’s administration of constitutional violations, abuse of power and implementing policies they considered harmful to Americans.

With control of both chambers, the party could intensify investigations into the administration and potentially pursue another impeachment effort against the President.

Some Democratic candidates also campaigned on calls for Trump to face criminal prosecution.

Trump was impeached twice during his first presidency but was acquitted by the Senate on both occasions.

However, removing a sitting president through impeachment requires a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate. Democrats’ reported 53 seats would therefore be insufficient to secure a conviction without support from Republicans or additional senators.

Beyond potential investigations and impeachment proceedings, Democrats also campaigned against the Iran war and its associated spending.

The party promised to challenge Trump’s tax cuts, protect Medicare and address rising living costs, issues that featured prominently in its election campaign.

The challenge now facing Democratic leaders is whether to prioritise investigations and another possible impeachment battle or concentrate on delivering the economic promises that helped secure their victories.