Democrats win both chambers of Congress in the midterms

Democrats won control of the U.S. House and Senate in Tuesday’s midterm elections, according to the Associated Press. The AP called the Senate on election night after Democrat Josh Turek won Iowa’s Senate race against Republican Ashley Hinson. It called the House early Wednesday Eastern time. Several races remained uncalled on Thursday, leaving the size of the incoming majorities unsettled.

Regular terms for newly elected representatives and senators begin at noon on Jan. 3 under the 20th Amendment. Republicans still control the outgoing Congress, which can take up legislation in its post-election session.

Where the new majorities have leverage

In the House, the incoming majority will be able to elect the speaker and steer which bills and spending measures reach the floor. In the Senate, Democrats can decide whether to advance Trump’s nominees for federal judgeships and senior administration jobs.

Senior Democrats in both chambers have said they plan to investigate what they describe as financial conflicts involving Trump and people close to him, the AP reported. The White House has denied wrongdoing. Committee assignments and announcements of hearings or subpoenas will show which inquiries the incoming Congress takes up.

Where lawmakers still need agreement

Both chambers must pass the same bill before it goes to Trump. If he vetoes it, overriding him requires a two-thirds vote in each chamber. That gives the president leverage in negotiations over funding and other legislation even after Democrats take over the congressional agenda.