By Temidire Adefolarin
The Democratic Party has secured control of both chambers of the United States Congress in a stunning midterm election victory, dealing President Donald Trump a major political setback and opening the door to increased scrutiny of his administration.
The party secured 53 seats in the 100-member Senate and was leading in three additional contests, while also crossing the 218-seat threshold required to control the 435-member House of Representatives.
The result represents a significant reversal in American politics, as Trump becomes the first sitting president since Barack Obama's second term to lose control of both chambers of Congress following a midterm election.
Several Democratic candidates achieved historic victories by defeating Republicans in traditionally conservative states, including Texas, Kansas, Iowa and South Carolina.
James Talarico defeated Trump's preferred candidate, Ken Paxton, in Texas, becoming the first Democrat to win a statewide election in the state in 32 years. Adam Hamilton also secured a breakthrough victory in Kansas, where Democrats had not won a Senate seat since 1934.
Other notable winners included Josh Turek in Iowa, Annie Andrews in South Carolina, Roy Cooper in North Carolina, Troy Jackson in Maine and Sherrod Brown in Ohio.
In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayyed claimed victory while leading in the closely contested race against Republican Mike Rogers. His victory would make him the first Muslim elected to the US Senate.
The Democratic takeover is expected to significantly constrain Trump's legislative agenda and strengthen congressional oversight of his administration.
Greater scrutiny of Trump administration
With control of the Senate, Democrats will have the authority to lead powerful committees, launch investigations, demand government records and summon officials and other witnesses to testify.
They will also have greater influence over presidential appointments, including cabinet positions, ambassadors and federal judges.
Democrats are expected to investigate several issues involving the administration, including allegations of politically motivated investigations, private donations solicited for Trump's proposed White House ballroom and the expansion of business interests involving members of his family.
The party could also consider impeachment proceedings if investigations uncover grounds for such action. However, removing a president would require a two-thirds majority in the Senate, making the process difficult.
Iran war and economic pressures
The election outcome could also affect Trump's handling of the war involving Iran.
Democrats are expected to use their congressional majority to scrutinise the administration's military operations and potentially restrict additional funding for the conflict.
The party has also promised to address rising living costs, healthcare expenses and other economic challenges facing American households.
Its proposed priorities include restoring expanded health insurance subsidies, reversing cuts to Medicaid and challenging Trump's tariff policies.
However, implementing these measures could prove difficult because Trump retains presidential veto powers. Overriding a veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers, meaning Democrats would need substantial Republican support.
The party could nevertheless use its control of congressional committees to investigate rising prices in essential sectors, including housing, groceries and electricity, and summon corporate executives to explain the increases.
Although the Democrats' victory gives them considerable legislative and investigative influence, their ability to deliver major policy changes will depend on party unity and cooperation from Republicans.
The new congressional majority is scheduled to take office on January 3, creating a potentially tense political relationship between the White House and Congress for the remainder of Trump's presidency.
Temidire Adefolarin
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