Washington: The midterm election results have ushered in a new political landscape in Washington, with Democrats preparing to respond to voters’ demands for change as Republicans face the collapse of their majorities in Congress. A series of unexpected Democratic victories has dealt a major blow to the Republican Party, signalling a clear rejection of unified GOP control of both the House and Senate under President Donald Trump.

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Trump acknowledged that the Iran war had influenced the election outcome, suggesting that rising petrol prices, driven partly by the more than eight-month-long conflict, had frustrated voters. “The Iran thing we had to do, and we continue to do it,” he told reporters. Earlier, he had indicated a willingness to work with Democrats, but later threatened to use his veto powers to block their legislative agenda.

The political repercussions for Republicans are expected to intensify. Vice President JD Vance, who is seen as a potential contender in the 2028 presidential race, blamed the war in Iran for the party’s poor midterm performance. Meanwhile, Mike Johnson of Louisiana will not seek another term as House Speaker, according to two people familiar with the matter.

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Democrats, meanwhile, are preparing a 100-day agenda focused on bringing down the cost of petrol, groceries and healthcare. They also plan to launch extensive oversight initiatives and investigations into Trump and his administration, with impeachment among the options under consideration.

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