Democrats won control of the House of Representatives in the November 3 midterm elections and are reported to have taken the Senate as well, setting up a new contest with President Donald Trump when the next Congress begins in January. The party’s House victory was celebrated by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who issued a statement congratulating Democrats.
Control of Congress will give Democrats greater power to investigate the administration and shape spending decisions. It will not allow them to override a presidential veto on their own: that requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers, which the party does not have.
Patrick Malone, a professor of public administration and policy at American University, told DW that some Republicans could break with Trump after the election results. That could create openings for bipartisan votes, including a possible veto override, though Democrats would still need substantial Republican support.
Impeachment and investigations remain options
Democrats will have enough votes in the House to bring impeachment charges, but conviction in the Senate and removal from office would require a two-thirds majority. The party is divided over whether another impeachment effort should be a priority. Senator Cory Booker has argued that Democrats should focus on voters’ concerns rather than make Trump the center of their agenda.
Investigations into Trump, his family or members of his administration are another likely avenue for oversight. Malone told DW that congressional inquiries can influence public opinion even when they do not produce legislation.
Democrats are also expected to press for changes in the administration, including calls for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to leave his post. The party could use its influence over government funding to apply pressure, but any decision to dismiss Hegseth rests with Trump.
The election result has not resolved differences among progressive, mainstream liberal and moderate Democrats. Malone said the party will need to agree on a governing agenda, particularly as some newly elected Democrats represent conservative districts. Opposition to Trump alone, he argued, will not be enough to sustain the party’s gains.
Reid Bentley