Americans vote in midterms set to upend Trump presidency

As Americans grapple with soaring prices and discontent over President Donald Trump's handling of the war in Iran, Tuesday's midterm elections will determine whether the nation shifts power in Washington—a referendum on Trump's second term. Democrats cautiously optimistic, Republicans spent the campaign's final days pouring millions into states and districts Trump won two years ago, believing discontent with Trump's perceived focus on the nation's capital rather than their economic struggles would depress Republican turnout.

Republicans held out hope their financial advantage would help, but braced for possible losses to the U.S. House and a hard-fought fight to retain the U.S. Senate. Democrats need only four seats in the 100-member Senate for a majority, a challenging task in historically Republican states. The margin is tight, with one or two seats potentially tipping the balance.

Republicans need a net gain of just three seats in the 435-member House. Early voting surpassed the 2016 turnout in many closely watched states, with over 57 million ballots cast before Election Day. Trump urged his supporters to act as though he were running for re-election, despite many Republican candidates distancing themselves.

In the final days of the campaign, Trump emphasized $5,000 for every U.S. adult, border policy, and the Middle East war, claiming his achievements have been "outstanding." However, 57% of U.S. adults disapprove of Trump's performance, with many citing high prices, gas, and groceries as reasons. The American people are demanding change, according to Rep. Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic National Committee.