Following major victories in traditionally Republican strongholds, Democrats are preparing to use their control of the US Congress to pursue measures aimed at reducing living costs, addressing the war in Iran and investigating alleged government misconduct and corruption.
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, who is expected to become the first Black speaker of the House when the new Congress convenes in January, has pledged to prioritise investigations into what he described as unprecedented corruption within the government.
Jeffries said public officials should focus on improving the lives of Americans rather than using their positions to benefit themselves, their families, associates or political donors.
However, Democrats will face significant political and legislative hurdles. President Donald Trump retains the power to veto legislation, while Republican influence in the Senate could obstruct most major bills.
Jeffries has outlined an ambitious legislative agenda for the House’s first 100 hours, with affordability expected to be a central focus.
The issue played a significant role in the midterm elections, as voters expressed concerns over rising prices, tariffs and the economic consequences of the war in Iran.
Democratic priorities include restoring expired health insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, reversing nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts introduced during Trump’s administration, rolling back tariffs and pushing for an end to the conflict that has driven up fuel prices.
Control of both chambers will allow Democrats to bring their proposals to the floor and take a leading role in negotiations over government spending.
They could also use upcoming federal budget deadlines to press for policy concessions. However, disagreements over spending could increase the risk of government shutdowns.
Democrats are also expected to make congressional oversight a major priority, using their control of committees to investigate the Trump administration.
Robert Garcia, the Democrat expected to lead the influential House Oversight Committee, issued a warning to Republicans on election night, posting the message, “LAWYER UP.”
Oregon Senator Ron Wyden similarly signalled an aggressive approach by posting the word “Subpoenas.”
With control of key committees in both chambers, Democrats will have the authority to summon government officials, request documents and conduct public hearings, potentially increasing scrutiny of Trump and senior administration figures.
Potential areas of investigation include the Trump family’s business and cryptocurrency dealings, government contracts involving billionaire Elon Musk, reductions in federal agencies, immigration enforcement and the administration’s handling of the war in Iran.
Democrats have also indicated interest in examining the handling of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The administration could refuse to comply with requests for testimony or documents, potentially triggering legal disputes.
Democrats could also consider launching a third impeachment effort against Trump, although party leaders have not made a firm commitment to such a move.
The House requires a simple majority to impeach a president. However, removal from office requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate, a threshold Democrats are unlikely to secure with their current numbers.
Democratic control of the Senate will provide the party with another significant source of influence through its authority over government appointments.
The party will be able to block or delay Trump’s judicial and Cabinet nominees, including any potential appointment to fill a vacancy on the Supreme Court.
This could limit the president’s ability to shape the federal judiciary and influence government institutions beyond his current term.
Democratic committee leaders in the Senate will also determine which legislative proposals and investigations receive priority.
Despite their congressional victories, Democrats are likely to face difficulties in turning their proposals into law.
Most legislation requires 60 votes in the Senate to overcome procedural obstacles, making bipartisan support necessary for many measures.
Trump can also veto bills passed by Congress, while overriding a presidential veto requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
The president will retain considerable executive authority over immigration, trade and military operations, although Congress can attempt to limit some of these powers through legislation and control over federal spending.
Following the election results, Trump adopted a conciliatory tone, praising Democrats for their performance and indicating that he would respect the outcome and expected to work with the opposition. He also suggested the possibility of cooperation on immigration policy.
However, Trump had previously warned that a Democratic takeover of Congress could lead him to veto all legislation, signalling that the next two years could be marked by political confrontation as well as opportunities for bipartisan cooperation.
