Trump faces new political reality as Democrats vow investigations

President Donald Trump convened on Thursday to confront the significant electoral setback his party suffered during the midterm elections. Democrats have now taken control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, marking a hostile political environment for the 80-year-old Trump, effectively turning him into a "lame duck" president for the remaining two years of his term. This loss signifies the end of Trump's stranglehold on the Republican Party.

During his first public appearance on Wednesday, Trump attempted to deflect attention from the election results, speaking about his newly constructed US$400 million ballroom. However, he acknowledged the impact of former Vice-President JD Vance's criticism of the Iran war, which he stated "largely true" as it contributed to the rising cost of living, a key issue for voters frustrated with the increasing expenses.

Vice-President Kamala Harris, alongside other Democrats, vowed to hold the administration accountable, focusing on lowering prices and combating corruption within the White House. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House, promising investigations into Trump and his administration, stating that the incoming majority would be focused on accountability and affordability.

Trump's relationship with Democrats became increasingly strained after the elections. Vance publicly distanced himself from Trump over the Iran war, claiming it as the "reason we lost" ahead of a potential 2028 White House run. Meanwhile, Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the severity of the Republican defeat, asserting that it could mark the "political worst-case scenario" for a midterm election.