Trump projects authority after midterm losses despite weakened Republican control

President Donald Trump posted a photograph of himself in the Oval Office on X with the caption “Trump is still your president,” signaling his intent to remain a dominant figure despite the Democratic Party’s sweeping victories in the recent midterm elections. While the election results have left Republicans without majorities in either chamber, the president retains broad constitutional powers, including the ability to issue executive orders, impose tariffs and exercise the veto, which can only be overridden by a supermajority in Congress.

Analysts note that the political will to use those powers may be waning. Vice-president JD Vance attributed the Republican defeat to the war in Iran that the administration launched with Israel, writing that “everyone knows why we lost.” Reports from a U.S. media partner indicate that Trump has consulted advisers about possibly replacing Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, though the president denied any imminent change.

"Republicans who think that they need to pivot away from Trumpism and from the [Make America Great Again] movement are going to either try to emphasise different policy issues, or they're going to try to frame themselves in ways that show some daylight between themselves and Donald Trump," said David Miller, an assistant professor of government at American University.

Trump later told reporters that he would cooperate with Democrats unless they act “destructively,” adding that he still possesses the veto power. The president’s statements contrast with the broader legislative environment, where Democrats now control both the House and Senate and could challenge his initiatives through new laws.