Polls open on US east coast in midterm elections that could weaken Trump’s hold on Washington

On Tuesday, polling stations opened across the US east coast for the midterm elections that could significantly impact President Donald Trump's presidency. Democrats are aiming to seize control of the House of Representatives and have a chance at taking the Senate, which would curb Trump's executive powers and potentially block his legislative agenda.

Multiple polls predict a Democratic victory in the House and a strong possibility of gaining a majority in the Senate due to voter dissatisfaction with Trump's unpopular administration, high energy costs, and the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Republicans are determined to defend their Senate majority, which currently stands at 53-47, and hope to maintain their control even in conservative states like Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Ohio, and Alaska. Democrats must also defend competitive seats, including in Michigan, where a recent internal dispute saw Congresswoman Haley Stevens endorse the Republican nominee over the Democratic candidate.

Polls predict Democrats will secure around 241 House seats, compared to 194 for Republicans, and a narrower 52-48 majority in the Senate. The high voter turnout, with over 57 million Americans already casting early votes, has raised concerns about potential disputes over the election results. Trump, who has repeatedly alleged voter fraud, will watch the results from the White House. If he loses control of Congress, he has indicated that he may veto legislation and could even defy Democrats.