Trump was elected in 2024 on a promise to arrest high inflation, but his tariffs on foreign goods and war against Iran have worsened the economic situation for many Americans.
| Photo Credit:
JESSICA KOSCIELNIAK
Following the November 3 elections, Democrats have captured control of both chambers of the US Congress in the November 2026 midterm elections, crossing the 218-seat threshold needed for a majority.
Democrats could now block President Donald Trump’s agenda and investigate alleged corruption during the last two years of his presidency.
Here, we explore how President Trump and the Republicans got here after two years in power:
Republicans defeated in their turf
Republicans have lost ground in some of the richest and poorest US counties, as well as in counties with both higher and lower proportions of college-educated residents.
In a historic win, Kansas Democrat Adam Hamilton, a megachurch pastor, won the Senate race becoming the first Democrat to win a Senate seat since the Great Depression, Reuters reported.
Democratic candidate for US Senate from Kansas Adam Hamilton speaks at an election night rally, during the midterm elections, in Overland Park, Kansas, US, November 3, 2026. REUTERS/Nathan Howard
| Photo Credit: NATHAN HOWARD
In Ohio, Democrat Sherrod Brown won against Vice President Vance. Notably, Ohio, along with Texas voted for Trump by a double-digit margin in 2024.
Other significant winners include Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms from Georgia, who became the first Black female Governor in the country, and New Hampshire Democrat Chris Pappas, who won the US Senate election, becoming the first openly gay male senator.
Voters’ deep frustration with the President
The Democrats’ win reflects a deep anger over living costs, tariffs and Trump’s war with Iran, which eventually increased fuel prices.
Many Americans said they feel worse off than two years ago and nearly 9 in 10 identified the cost of living as a crucial or major factor in their vote, Reuters said, citing exit polls conducted by SSRS.
Trump was elected in 2024 on a promise to arrest high inflation, but his tariffs on foreign goods and war against Iran have worsened the economic situation for many Americans.
What lies ahead
Although Democrats have limited control over the President’s actions, it will still allow for deeper Congressional scrutiny, which will limit his ability to push his agenda.
Winning back the Congress, however, is a double-edged sword for the Democrats, as the voters will likely look up to the Democrats to address their economic concerns and not just oppose Trump.
Although the win is historic, the Democrats have reportedly limited influence over passing legislations as President Trump retains his veto power.
Published on November 4, 2026
