Democrats take both chambers of Congress in rebuke to Trump
Democrats won control of the House and Senate in the US midterm elections, after gains in states including Texas, Kansas and South Carolina. Reuters reported voter frustration over the cost of living, the war with Iran and Trump’s stewardship; the new Congress, which takes office in January, can investigate his administration and block nominees.
Bottom line — From January, Democratic control of the Senate gives the party power to block Trump’s nominees.
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Reuters reported that Kansas elected its first Democratic senator since 1932, while Texas elected its first Democratic senator since 1988.
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In Texas, Democrat James Talarico defeated Trump-backed Republican Ken Paxton; Gina Hinojosa also defeated Governor Greg Abbott, according to Reuters.
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Democrats’ Senate gains included six seats previously held by Republicans, according to Protothema.
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Reuters cited exit polls in which 70% of voters said they wanted Congress to provide stronger checks and balances on the president.
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Trump accepted the results and said he was willing to work with Democrats, according to Hurriyet Daily News; he also threatened to veto proposals he opposed.
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The Conversation cautioned that Democrats may lack the numbers to override a presidential veto, limiting how far Congress can constrain Trump.