By The Haitian Tribune Staff
WASHINGTON — Democrats are projected to take control of both the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, delivering a major setback to President Donald Trump and his party. Senate control has been called for Democrats. House projections also show the party winning a majority, though vote counting and certification are still underway.
The outcome follows a campaign in which Trump made himself a central figure, urging voters to treat the midterms as a verdict on his presidency. He told supporters to “pretend I’m on the ballot.” As Republican losses mounted, he argued that he would have won by a landslide if he had been on the ballot.
Voter concerns included high prices, the economy and the direction of the country. The results suggest that many voters held Trump and his party responsible for their dissatisfaction.
With control of both chambers, Democrats will be positioned to lead congressional committees, influence legislation and increase scrutiny of the administration. Their majorities could also complicate Trump’s efforts to advance his agenda and confirm nominees. The extent of that influence will depend on the final election results and the priorities lawmakers pursue.
Trump’s decision to make the election a referendum on his leadership appears to have helped focus voters’ attention on his record. The shift in Congress now sets up a more contentious final stretch of his term, with Democrats preparing to challenge the White House and Republicans facing pressure to explain the losses.
The Haitian Tribune Newsroom
