Democrats Capture Control of U.S. Congress
Party wins majorities in both Senate and House, altering the final two years of Donald Trump's presidency.
The Democratic Party won decisive victories in the U.S. congressional elections, securing majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
By taking control of both chambers, Democrats will lead the legislative branch during the last two years of Donald Trump's presidential term — a shift that will complicate the president's ability to push through his policy priorities.
Notable upsets came in states long considered Republican strongholds, including Texas, Kansas and Ohio, and Democrats also made gains in several closely fought gubernatorial contests.
Immediate political consequences
Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic leader in the House of Representatives, hailed the outcome as the start of "the great American comeback," calling the results a mandate to pursue the party's agenda in Congress.
President Donald Trump acknowledged the surprise outcome, saying the Democrats "have done a good job."
With a new Democratic majority, Congress will be in a position to block or alter parts of the administration's legislative program, open oversight investigations into the executive branch, and potentially revive discussions about a fresh impeachment process.
Photo: press material from the event
