Democrats win control of Senate as US voters reject Trump’s agenda

Democrats have regained control of the US Senate after a series of victories in states that had long favoured Republicans. The result gives them greater power to block Donald Trump’s legislation and appointments, and is part of a likely Democratic takeover of both chambers of Congress next year.

Democrats had won 54 seats to Republicans’ 42, with counting still under way in Alaska. They gained ground in states including Texas, Ohio and South Carolina, while Republicans held seats in many conservative states but faced unexpectedly close races in Florida and Louisiana. The shift follows a slump in Trump’s approval ratings amid voter concerns about his handling of the economy and immigration, as well as his decision to attack Iran.