Midterm Stakes: Trump Braces for Democratic Probes If GOP Loses Control

President Donald Trump faces a decisive fork in the road following Tuesday's midterm elections. If Republicans lose their majorities in Congress, the final two years of his presidency will likely be defined by Democratic-led investigations into his administration and personal business dealings. The political focus may also shift toward the 2028 presidential race as candidates begin vying to replace him.

A recent AP Voter Poll indicates that enthusiasm for Trump’s leadership is low among the electorate. Approximately two-thirds of voters nationally said his policies have worsened economic conditions in the United States. Only about 3 in 10 voters reported that his policies have improved the economy. Similarly, roughly two-thirds stated that his tariff policies have hurt the national economy or their local area.

Voters also expressed negative views on Trump’s broader priorities and capabilities. More than half of respondents said he is not a strong leader and does not have the right priorities. About 6 in 10 voters said Trump places a higher priority on his own personal interests than on the country’s interests. Only about 4 in 10 said he prioritizes the country more.

Trump’s campaign strategy relied on personalizing the midterms. He urged voters to pretend he was on the ballot, a move intended to activate base supporters. Democrats viewed this as an opportunity to blame the president for the state of the economy, which polls showed was voters' top concern. Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey noted that the president’s strategy has kept him central to the conversation about the harm done to voters.

Should Democrats secure a majority in at least one chamber, they plan to use committee control and subpoena powers to investigate the administration. Representative Robert Garcia of California, who is expected to lead the House Oversight Committee, has outlined a plan to demand accountability for Immigration and Customs Enforcement tactics. His agenda also includes examining the Trump family’s business dealings and the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

Trump has braced for legislative fights, stating he has a strong veto. He told reporters that he has dealt with similar situations before and expects to work out deals. If Democrats take the House, Speaker-elect Hakeem Jeffries has signaled an intent to pursue investigations into top Cabinet members. Jeffries specifically mentioned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling for him to be removed from his position.

In the final weeks of the campaign, Trump held a marathon of rallies, primarily in conservative states. He also made a promise to send $5,000 to every adult if his party wins. His closing speech took place at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Monday, where he spent much of the hour discussing his beautification projects in Washington, D.C.