Maria Imran 
The US midterm elections have handed control of Congress to the Democrats, according to AFP, in a sharp rebuke to President Donald Trump. Democrats captured both the Senate and the House of Representatives, which gives them the power to block legislation, launch investigations, and challenge appointments.
US Midterm Elections Deliver A Democratic Wave
Voters said they were frustrated with the cost of living, tariffs and the war with Iran which has driven up fuel prices. Trump struck a conciliatory tone, saying he was willing to accept the results and that the Democrats fought hard, adding that he did not see the outcome as a hit on him.
Key Races And Firsts In History
Democrats captured long-held Republican seats in South Carolina, North Carolina, Iowa, Kansas, Ohio, Texas and Maine. They gained a Senate seat and the Texas governor’s race, and Jon Ossoff held on in Georgia.
In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed won to become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, while Keisha Lance Bottoms was elected Georgia’s first black woman governor. Republicans did find some solace in Florida, where Byron Donalds became the state’s first black governor and Ashley Moody held onto her Senate seat. When the new Congress meets in January, Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic House leader, could become the first Black Speaker.
What The Result Means For Pakistan
Pakistan has long-term engagements with both US parties and a split Washington will likely increase the premium on steady, institution-based diplomacy. Islamabad’s balanced foreign policy, maintaining channels with Washington, Beijing and the Gulf, is well suited to a period of political change in America.
The recent contacts offer a glimpse of how busy that diplomacy is, including Field Marshal Asim Munir’s call with Trump and Trump’s reaction to the Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan defence pact. But wider US decisions count too, from the end of the US military presence in Iraq to the White House AI summit and the backlash over remarks on California.
Keep Reading: More Trump and Pakistan Headlines
Why Are Californians Criticising Trump?
Look into the backlash over remarks naming Los Angeles and San Diego.
What Did Trump Say About Iraq?
Find the story behind the end of the US military presence.
Who Met Trump at AI Summit?
Meet the technology leaders who joined the White House discussions.
Did Munir Speak to Trump?
Uncover the call that came before the Tehran visit.
Is Trump Backing the Defence Pact?
Check out his reaction to the Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan agreement.
