How do the US midterms work, and why are they so important for Trump's presidency?
US voters are electing a new Congress. The results will be decisive for the future of the United States, and a judgment on Donald Trump's second term as president.
Every four years, the United States holds midterm elections, which take place at the midpoint between presidential elections. These elections do not determine who serves as President, but rather who will represent the nation in the House of Representatives and the Senate. In addition to the federal elections, voters in 36 states will also choose their governors.
The two chambers of the US Congress are the House of Representatives and the Senate, with 435 and 100 seats respectively. Each member of the House represents an electoral district, while senators are elected for six-year terms, with one senator per state. Currently, the Republicans, who are the party of President Trump, hold a majority in both chambers, but the margin is narrow.
Analysts predict that Democrats are likely to gain control of the House of Representatives, while they might also take the Senate. Should Democrats secure a majority in either or both chambers, it would make it more challenging for President Trump to implement his policies, as many federal decisions require approval from Congress. Conversely, with the Republicans maintaining control, it would be easier for Trump to govern as he sees fit.
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