US Midterms Elections: In a major setback to US President Donald Trump, American voters gave the opposition Democratic Party control of the US Congress and flipped key governor posts.
Trump's Republican Party faced stunning defeats in its strongholds such as Texas, Georgia and Iowa, where it lost the governors' posts to the Democrats. The grand old party also faced a drubbing in Senate races in Texas, Maine, South Carolina, North Carolina, Kansas, Iowa where Trump campaigned with a simple message urging voters to pretend that he was on the ballot.
However, Democratic Party's victory in the US midterm elections has shifted the balance of power in Washington. With control of both chambers of Congress, Democrats will have several tools to challenge President Donald Trump's policies and decisions over the next two years.
The result is a setback for Republicans as it can make it harder for Trump to push through his economic and political agenda during the remaining two years of his presidency.
From blocking legislation to investigating the administration, here are five ways Democrats can use their new congressional power.
1. Blocking or delaying legislation
With control of the House and Senate, Democrats can block, delay or change legislation proposed by Trump and his Republican allies. They can refuse to pass bills that do not align with their priorities and push for changes before approving major policy proposals.
2. Holding investigations and congressional hearings
Democrats can use congressional committees to investigate the Trump administration. They can summon government officials, demand documents and hold public hearings on decisions made by the White House. These investigations can bring greater public attention to the administration's actions.
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3. Scrutinising government spending
Control of Congress gives Democrats an important role in deciding how federal money is spent. They can examine government budgets, question spending decisions and challenge funding requests. They can also use budget negotiations to seek changes to the administration's priorities.
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4. Exercising oversight over the administration
Congress has the power to monitor how the executive branch carries out laws and uses its authority. Democrats can question cabinet officials, examine government programmes and demand explanations for major policy decisions. Congressional oversight can also put pressure on the administration to provide information and remain accountable.
5. Blocking presidential nominees through the Senate
The Senate has the power to approve or reject presidential nominees for key government positions, including Cabinet posts and federal judges. With Democrats controlling the chamber, Trump's nominees could face tougher confirmation hearings, delays or rejection if they fail to secure enough support.
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Although Democrats now have greater power to challenge Trump's agenda, they cannot automatically reverse every presidential decision. Trump retains his veto power, while Senate procedural rules could make it difficult to pass certain bills.
However, Democratic control of Congress means the White House will face greater scrutiny, more legislative challenges and increased pressure to defend its policies.