Americans vote in election that could reshape Trump presidency

Millions of Americans cast their votes on Tuesday in a midterm election that could reshape Donald Trump's presidency, potentially shifting control of Congress from the Republicans and imposing limitations on the president's remaining two years in office. Polls predict a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives and possibly a gain in the Senate due to voter dissatisfaction with Trump, high energy costs, and the ongoing conflict with Iran.

If Republicans lose the House, Democrats could obstruct Trump's legislative agenda and launch investigations into his administration. A lost Senate could limit his ability to appoint Supreme Court justices and senior officials, suggesting that Trump's influence in US politics is waning.

69-year-old retiree Gabrielle Schlueter of Atlanta, Georgia, explained that she voted for the Democrats, citing her concerns about the economy, rising prices, healthcare costs, and the worry faced by others. In his final TV appearance, Trump defended his record by claiming he had revived the nation through his immigration crackdown, his war on Iran, and tariffs.

He reiterated his commitment to keeping America great, a sentiment that resonated with some voters despite the country's current economic challenges. Republicans argue that Trump's tax cuts and anti-immigrant stance benefit voters, positioning themselves as the defenders of American values against what they view as socialist Democratic candidates.

Republicans currently control a 53-47 Senate majority, but the election will decide the fate of these seats in traditionally conservative states such as Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Ohio, and Alaska. Democrats must also defend competitive seats, including Michigan, where a bitter internal party dispute resulted in congresswoman Haley Stevens endorsing Republican Mike Rogers instead of the Democratic nominee, Abdul El-Sayed.

Decision Desk HQ forecasts Democrats securing 241 House seats against the Republicans' 194, and a close 52-48 Democratic majority in the Senate. Early voting has surpassed 57 million, indicating a high level of political engagement.

The campaign has been inundated with over US$11 billion in political advertisements, with billionaire Elon Musk contributing millions to Republican efforts. As polls close, the possibility of disputed results will intensify, given Trump's persistent allegations of widespread voter fraud and widespread cheating. Voting machines malfunctioned during a critical House race in New York, leading right-wing influencers to spread unfounded claims of fraud despite local election officials' assurances that all ballots would be counted.

The Justice Department, led by Trump's former personal lawyer, has already filed a lawsuit to potentially block the certification of Alaska's Senate race if Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan loses narrowly. However, a court ruled against this effort. The Supreme Court also rejected an emergency request on Monday to compel California to exclude over 20,000 mail-in ballots due to potential citizenship issues, maintaining that all votes must be counted.

As the results are announced, Republicans have vowed to veto any Democratic legislation if they regain control of Congress.