US MIDTERMS: DEMOCRATS TAKE CONTROL OF US CONGRESS AS VOTERS REJECT TRUMP’S REPUBLICANS

The Democratic Party has secured control of both chambers of the United States Congress following a sweeping victory in the 2026 midterm elections, dealing a major political blow to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party.

The results, announced on Wednesday, November 4, followed a series of unexpected Democratic victories in traditionally Republican strongholds, reflecting widespread voter dissatisfaction with the direction of the Trump administration.

Democrats captured the House of Representatives and the Senate, reversing Republican control of Congress and setting the stage for a major shift in the balance of political power in Washington.

Among the significant victories was the election of Democrat James Talarico in Texas, where Republicans had maintained a stronghold for decades. Democrats also secured Senate victories in Kansas, Iowa, South Carolina, North Carolina, Ohio and Maine.

In Kansas, Adam Hamilton became the first Democrat elected to the state's Senate seat since 1932, while Annie Andrews defeated Republican candidate Darline Graham in South Carolina. Democrat Troy Jackson also defeated Republican incumbent Susan Collins in Maine.

The victories were attributed partly to growing concerns about the cost of living, inflation, the administration's handling of the war with Iran and allegations of corruption within government.

Trump had actively campaigned for Republican candidates, holding numerous rallies and encouraging supporters to treat the elections as a referendum on his presidency. However, the strategy failed to prevent significant Republican losses.

Reacting to the outcome, Trump congratulated the Democrats but insisted that his absence from the ballot had influenced the results. He also indicated willingness to work with the opposition on certain issues.

The Democratic victories will significantly affect the remaining two years of Trump's presidency. With control of Congress, Democrats will have greater power to scrutinise the administration, launch investigations, block presidential nominations and challenge major legislative proposals.

Democratic leaders have already indicated plans to prioritise reducing living costs and increasing oversight of the federal government.

The outcome represents one of the most significant midterm setbacks for a sitting US president in recent decades and could reshape the country's political landscape ahead of the 2028 presidential election.