Trump Vows Veto Power Against New Congress
The president cited high gas prices and weak candidate enthusiasm as reasons for Republican midterm losses.
By Amit Chukwu ·
President Donald Trump pledged to use his executive veto power to block legislation from the new Democratic majority in Congress. He made the announcement late Tuesday, November 3, following midterm election results in which Democrats seized control of both chambers.
The president posted an image of a red hat with the word Veto on Truth Social. During live coverage on Fox News Channel, Trump stated he was surprised by the Republican performance but remained confident in his ability to collaborate with the new congressional leadership. He predicted that Democrats would introduce bills he considered extreme. "They'll send over things that are insane and I'll veto them," Trump said. He added that after a period of vetoes, Democrats would seek a collaborative approach to pass legislation.
Democrats flipped at least seven Republican-held Senate seats and more than two dozen House districts. This shift allows the party to block the administration's legislative agenda, reject nominees, and launch investigations during the final two years of the current term. Trump indicated that several Democratic lawmakers have already contacted him. He noted that he has maintained relationships with members of the opposing party and expects further communication as the new Congress organizes.
Trump attributed part of the Republican loss to consumer dissatisfaction with rising gasoline prices linked to the conflict with Iran. He argued that voters supported the military strategy but resisted the short-term economic impact. "I don't think it's the war, Bret, I think it's the gasoline price," he told anchor Bret Baier. He defended the action as necessary to prevent a state sponsor of terror from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Trump stated that the historical significance of the decision would outweigh the immediate political cost.
The president also criticized specific Republican candidates for failing to energize the base. He noted that his administration held approximately 30 rallies during the campaign period. Trump suggested that some endorsed candidates had previously opposed him, which alienated supporters. He also observed that his own name was not on the ballot, which he believed reduced voter turnout enthusiasm.
Trump acknowledged the strength of the Democratic campaign while maintaining that the results did not constitute a personal defeat. He praised the party for fighting hard. The next step involves the formal transition of power in the House and Senate, where the new Democratic leadership will set the legislative agenda.
The president continued to monitor the final tallies and prepare for his first address to the joint chamber. He emphasized that the administration would continue its work despite the change in congressional control.
