KABUL (Pajhwok): The US Democratic Party has secured control of the Senate in the midterm elections, winning at least 51 seats against 40 declared for Republicans.
CBS News reported that the victory would shift the balance of power in Washington, allowing Democrats to block President Donald Trump’s nominees and challenge his legislative agenda.
Democrats won several Senate seats in traditionally Republican states, including Iowa, Kansas, Texas, South Carolina, Ohio and North Carolina. The winners included Josh Turek, Adam Hamilton, James Talarico, Annie Andrews, Sherrod Brown and Roy Cooper.
In a telephone interview with CBS News before polling stations closed, Trump said he would use his veto power to block Democratic legislation if the party gained control of Congress.
He said repeated vetoes could eventually force Democrats to negotiate with Republicans.
Trump also expressed confidence that he could continue pursuing his agenda during the remaining two years of his presidency, regardless of the composition of Congress.
The Associated Press (AP) reported that Trump did not regard the Republican Party’s election losses as a personal defeat, instead blaming the performance of its candidates.
Democrats’ Senate victory came as the race for control of the House of Representatives continued, with the party also gaining several seats previously held by Republicans.
The US Senate has 100 members, with each of the 50 states represented by two senators. A majority gives Democrats greater influence over legislation and the confirmation of presidential nominees.
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