Will losing US midterms see Trump double down or signal beginning of the end?
Tuesday’s US midterm election is both hugely consequential and not so consequential even as the world waits to see the American voters’ verdict on Donald Trump’s presidency – and the impact that verdict will have on his temperament, plans and possible petulant response, analysts and former government officials said. On the one hand, an expected strong showing by opposition Democrats could bring…
The upcoming US midterm elections pose a significant question: will the results see President Donald Trump double down on his policies, or will they signal the beginning of the end of his presidency? Analysts and former government officials suggest that while an expected strong showing by opposition Democrats could lead to increased Congressional scrutiny of unconventional policies, Trump will likely maintain his veto power, preventing changes to his agenda.
However, lawmakers may begin questioning and criticizing Trump's foreign policy, particularly towards China, as his influence wanes. China has welcomed Trump's recent shifts in policy, hoping for his continued support. Despite a high probability of Democrats winning the House and a significant chance of winning the Senate, Trump's temperament and reaction to a potential loss remain uncertain.
He may blame China for failing to aid his political cause or shift his focus to executive orders and foreign policy, where he faces fewer constraints. The White House has already demonstrated flexibility, such as easing Canadian tariffs in Maine, which could be a precursor to further strategic retreats.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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