Trump congratulates Democrats on midterms win, says Iran war played role

Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in a major midterm election setback for Republicans. Donald Trump congratulated them and acknowledged that the unpopular Iran war may have contributed to the result, but rejected personal responsibility and said he would work with Democrats while vetoing legislation he opposed.

Trump instead criticised Republican candidates and blamed Texas Governor Greg Abbott for losing his race; a White House official also questioned the quality of some candidates. The article says polls linked voter discontent to the war and rising oil prices, and notes speculation that Trump could resume large-scale military action against Tehran as he enters the final two years of his presidency.