Trump faces congressional scrutiny as Democrats seize both chambers

The shift in congressional power alters the balance of authority between the White House and Capitol Hill. Democrats now control both chambers of Congress, ending Republican dominance in the legislative branch.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York announced a 100-day agenda focused on reducing consumer costs and reversing healthcare cuts. He stated that the goal is to hold officials accountable. Rep. Robert Garcia of California, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, warned the administration to lawyer up. Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, leading the Senate Finance Committee, indicated that subpoenas would be used.

Trump had positioned the midterm election as a referendum on his leadership. He urged voters to pretend he was on the ballot while campaigning in conservative states. His administration recently engaged in a war with Iran and implemented high tariffs, which contributed to rising prices for gas and groceries. Trump told Fox News early Wednesday that Democrats performed well in their campaigns. He said he did not view the results as a direct hit on him.

Democratic leaders plan to investigate the Trump family business dealings and the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. They will examine interactions between government officials and private corporations. The new majority gives Democrats control over committees and subpoena power. The White House may assert executive privilege to slow the process, a strategy used during Trump’s first term.

Trump indicated he would use his veto power frequently to block legislative changes. He posted a photo of his red ball cap with the word VETO stitched on it. Senate Democrats hold at least 54 of 100 seats. This majority provides them with the numbers needed to stymie presidential nominations for cabinet posts and federal judgeships.

Republicans face internal challenges following their losses. Speaker Mike Johnson suggested he might return to Shreveport, Louisiana, to start a lawn care business. Rivals are seeking to replace him as party leader. The Republican conference will hold internal elections during freshman orientation. The House will choose its new speaker when the next Congress convenes.

A funding deadline approaches next month. Congress must pass a bill to keep the government running to avoid a shutdown. Republicans may attempt to pass priority spending measures during the lame-duck session, though their reduced numbers make such efforts difficult. No Supreme Court justice has announced plans to step down, limiting the administration’s ability to nominate a new justice before the Senate composition changes.