Trump Admits Iran War Contributed to Republican Defeat, Posts ‘VETO’ Cap Message As Democrats Seize Congress

Democrats capture both House and Senate in sweeping midterm victory, threatening to derail Trump's legislative agenda as president acknowledges Iran conflict contributed to Republican losses but vows to block Democratic bills.

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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the war against Iran contributed to his Republican Party's crushing defeat in the midterm elections, as Democrats seized control of both chambers of Congress, prompting the president to signal a confrontational approach by posting a picture of a red baseball cap emblazoned with the word "VETO".

Trump made the remarks in separate interviews with US media outlets, acknowledging the Democrats' electoral success and saying he was willing to accept the results despite the scale of the Republican setback.

"I am absolutely willing to accept those results," he told US newspaper, adding that he was prepared to work with Democrats.

Separately, in an interview with US news channel, Trump also praised his political opponents, saying they had campaigned hard and deserved credit for their performance.

However, the president's conciliatory remarks were accompanied by a warning that he would use his veto power to block legislation he opposed. Shortly afterwards, he posted an image of a red baseball cap bearing the word "VETO" on social media, signalling his intention to resist the incoming Democratic congressional majority.

"They'll send over things that are insane, and I'll veto them," Trump told US news channel. He suggested that after repeated vetoes, Democrats would eventually approach him to negotiate compromises.

The election results mark a major shift in the balance of power in Washington, ending Republican control of both chambers and setting the stage for a divided government during the final two years of Trump's presidency.

With control of the House and Senate, Democrats will gain authority over congressional committees, legislative priorities and investigations into the administration. They will also have greater influence over presidential appointments and the confirmation of senior government and judicial nominees.

Iran war emerges as major electoral issue

The conflict with Iran emerged as one of the central issues in the election, with Democratic candidates linking the military campaign to rising fuel prices and broader economic pressures on American households.

Trump acknowledged that the conflict had hurt Republican candidates but continued to defend his decision to launch military action.

"I think a part of it was Iran," he told US news channel, while maintaining that voters also understood the importance of his actions against Tehran.

The war, which has entered its ninth month, has contributed to public dissatisfaction, particularly over rising fuel costs and the economic consequences of the prolonged military confrontation.

The Democratic victory has also intensified questions about the future direction of US policy towards Iran, although the election results do not automatically change the president's authority over military and foreign affairs.

The incoming Democratic majority is expected to use its congressional powers to scrutinise the administration's policies, challenge its legislative priorities and press for greater oversight of the war.

For Trump, the results present a political challenge as he enters the final two years of his term, with Democrats gaining the institutional power to investigate his administration and obstruct parts of his domestic agenda.