By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Democrats secured majorities in both chambers of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, a result widely viewed as a rejection of President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, particularly the war in Iran and global tariffs that fueled inflation.
The outcome triggered immediate infighting among Republicans. Vice President JD Vance blamed the loss on the Iran war, a view echoed by Donald Trump Jr. Trump acknowledged the war raised gasoline prices but insisted it was necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Democratic strategy focuses on budget power
With control of the House and Senate, Democrats plan to use their authority over federal spending to pressure the White House. Former diplomat Ryan Crocker said the budget gives them unprecedented leverage, especially regarding Pentagon funding requests for the Iran war.
An early test comes in December during the lame‑duck session when a continuing resolution expires. Democrats could attach conditions to the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes about $1.15 trillion in defense spending for 2027, or insert language blocking funds for military operations in Iran, Yemen, Lebanon and Gaza.
Veto power and investigative limits
Despite their majority, Democrats cannot override a presidential veto, limiting their ability to force policy changes on tariffs, the Iran war or aid to Ukraine. Past efforts to restrain Trump’s foreign policy, such as a 2019 War Powers resolution on Yemen, were vetoed.
Analysts caution that investigations into the Iran war or defense contracts linked to Trump may embarrass the administration but may not translate into concrete policy constraints.
Implications for Israel and regional policy
The election also reshaped the debate over US‑Israel relations. Republican analysts warned Israel faces its biggest challenge in Washington since the 1975 reassessment. Incoming Muslim Senator Abdul El‑Sayed praised Trump’s decision to end military aid to Israel, calling for a halt to weapons sales used in actions he described as genocide and apartheid.
