What can Democrats actually do now they have won Congress?
Democrats have taken back the House and Senate in the 2026 midterms. Here’s what a majority in Congress means for them – and for Trump Tell us: what do you want to know about the midterm election results? Democrats win control of Senate as US voters reject Trump’s agenda US midterm elections – live updates Track live results from all 50 states Democrats have flipped the US Senate and House of…
For the first time in decades, Democrats have taken control of both chambers of Congress after a significant victory in the mid-term elections. Speaker of the House-elect Hakeem Jeffries expressed giddiness on election night, predicting that the next year would mark a "great American comeback" for his party. However, the reality of the situation may set in quickly, as the newly-elected Democrats face the daunting task of turning their campaign promises into actual legislation.
While Democrats now hold the power to pass laws, President Donald Trump still holds the authority to veto any bills they pass. The President's veto power and the Senate's two-thirds majority requirement for impeachment mean that Democrats will face significant roadblocks in their legislative agenda. Unlike their previous term, when Republicans controlled both chambers, Democrats' ability to pass legislation will be limited, as they will need to work with a divided Congress.
Despite their narrow victory, Democrats remain deeply unpopular among voters, with only 14% approving of their performance according to a recent Gallup poll. To capitalize on their newfound power, Democrats will need to prove that they can deliver on their campaign promises, particularly in addressing concerns about low wages, rising costs, and other issues that have frustrated American voters.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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