The Aporia
The Guardian view on the midterms and foreign policy: American voters spoke, and now the world waits anxiously | Editorial. (2026, November 5). The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/nov/05/the-guardian-view-on-the-midterms-and-foreign-policy-american-voters-spoke-and-now-the-world-waits-anxiously
“The Guardian view on the midterms and foreign policy: American voters spoke, and now the world waits anxiously | Editorial.” The Guardian, 5 Nov. 2026, https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/nov/05/the-guardian-view-on-the-midterms-and-foreign-policy-american-voters-spoke-and-now-the-world-waits-anxiously.
“The Guardian view on the midterms and foreign policy: American voters spoke, and now the world waits anxiously | Editorial.” The Guardian, November 5, 2026. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/nov/05/the-guardian-view-on-the-midterms-and-foreign-policy-american-voters-spoke-and-now-the-world-waits-anxiously.
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In the US midterms held on November 3, 2026, Democrats won control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, marking a significant shift in power from the Republicans. This outcome was seen as a direct consequence of President Donald Trump's unpopularity due to economic issues such as rising prices for gas and utilities following his aggressive foreign policies, including the war against Iran. Key Democratic victories occurred in traditionally Republican strongholds like Texas, South Carolina, and Kansas. Despite early predictions that Democrats might struggle to gain control of Congress, their sweeping wins suggest a voter backlash against Trump's policies. The election results have set the stage for renewed debates within the Democratic Party about its ideological direction leading up to the 2028 presidential primary.
Mr Trump, who was stunningly rebuffed by voters in Tuesday’s midterms, might seek satisfaction in construction projects, the 2028 presidential race and his family’s future. Or, amid the humiliation and with Republican critics growing louder, he could distract attention with fresh adventurism – perhaps escalating against Cuba – or more likely a vengeful new offensive against Iran.
Resuming the bombing would only deepen the crisis. The president has so far withstood Benjamin Netanyahu’s blandishments to renew their illegal war, and the Israeli prime minister is now fighting for political survival after last month’s election.
But Democrats’ seizure of Congress, which controls government spending, nonetheless gives them significant new power. They can increase pressure by tying their goals to “must-pass” legislation, though threatening a government shutdown over foreign policy comes with political risks.
Investigating the Trump circle’s links with foreign powers and business people could prove especially powerful: voters are increasingly concerned about corruption now that critics have tied it to the affordability crisis.