From Foreign Policy · Michael Hirsh · · 2m
U.S. Democracy Is Back, Sort of
Trump faces historic rebuke as Democrats flip Congress in 2026 midterms.
In brief
Trump faces historic rebuke as Democrats flip Congress in 2026 midterms. Democrats won both the House and Senate in 2026 midterms, but Trump remains defiant and plans to use executive power to push his agenda. Originally reported by Foreign Policy.
2026 Midterm Elections
The 2026 midterm elections signaled U.S. democracy is not dead, not by a long shot.
Trump's Political Dominance Ends
President Donald Trump’s decade-long dominance of national politics ends with Democrats taking back both the House and Senate.
2028 Presidential Race Begins
The 2028 presidential race, which effectively begins today, is now up in the air.
International Role Uncertain
The ultimate direction of the country’s international role will be decided by the 2028 presidential election.
Brutal Two-Year Period Ahead
Both Democrats and Republicans will engage in vicious infighting over fundamental policy issues for the next two years.
Trump's Executive Power
Trump has signed 292 executive orders, 90 memoranda, and 192 proclamations in less than two years.
Economic and Approval Ratings Drop
Trump’s approval ratings fell to historic lows as economic news became grim in his second term.
Democratic Gains in Key States
In Texas, Democrat James Talarico won the Senate race and State Rep. Gina Hinojosa became the first Democratic governor in 32 years.
Trump's Defiance
Trump declared he would use 'tremendous' executive power to push through his agenda regardless of congressional control.
Trump's 2026 Election Strategy
Trump made the midterm election a referendum on himself, saying he was 'not on the ballot' and would have won 'in a landslide' if he was.
Trump's Foreign Policy Impact
Trump’s Iran war and Ukraine invasion alienated middle-income voters and MAGA supporters alike.
Latino Voter Shift
Latino voters shifted from Trump to Democrats in key regions including Texas, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
Democratic Challenges
Democrats face internal divisions over taxes, healthcare, and foreign policy, especially support for Israel.
2028 Democratic Strategy
Democrats aim to pass bills on health insurance, housing, and industrial policies despite potential Trump vetoes.
Trump's Legacy Concerns
Trump is concerned about his legacy as the GOP fractures and the MAGA coalition no longer exists.
What matters most
Democrats won both the House and Senate in 2026 midterms, but Trump remains defiant and plans to use executive power to push his agenda.
