Politics
Trump Faces Divided Government After Democrats Take Congress
After Democrats won majorities in both the House and Senate, President Donald Trump’s influence over the legislative agenda has sharply declined. Trump has said he is willing to accept the results and work with Democrats, yet he has also highlighted his veto power as a tool to block legislation. He posted a photo of a red MAGA hat with the word “VETO” on Truth Social and told Fox News he would veto all “insane” Democratic bills. Trump’s executive powers remain intact; he can still issue executive orders and declare national emergencies. In January 2025, he declared a national emergency to divert funds for a southern border wall after Congress cut the requested budget. A president can use the veto to block congressional actions, and only a two‑thirds majority in both chambers can override it—something Democrats alone cannot achieve. Historically, lame‑duck presidents have used their executive authority to pursue policy goals, especially in foreign affairs. Barack Obama finalized the Iran nuclear deal and restored ties with Cuba after losing congressional control in 2014. Bill Clinton focused on foreign policy and environmental protection in his final months. Joe Biden issued pardons and reversed some policies in his last days. Trump’s tenure now falls into a period of divided government, where his remaining two years will likely see him rely on executive tools to advance his agenda while Congress moves forward with its own priorities.