The US has voted in midterm elections billed by some as among the most important in history. Here are six things to emerge so far.
Democrats on course to take over the House of Representatives
The Democrats are predicted to seize control of the House of Representatives from the Republicans, giving them the power to frustrate Donald Trump’s policy plans. One of two congressional legislative chambers, the House is expected to tip into blue control after picking up moderate, suburban districts across the north-east and Midwest.
The Democrats need another four gains to regain control of the House. #Midterms2018 pic.twitter.com/5y4P2AmTjf
— Ian Jones (@ian_a_jones) November 7, 2018
But the Republicans hold the Senate
The party of government retained control of the upper chamber and indeed made gains in the Senate, which it will hold on to for the next two years. Had they lost control of both chambers it would likely have had dire consequences for Mr Trump and any hopes of re-election in 2020.
The two branches of Congress are moving in different directions. Democrats have momentum in the House; the Republicans are making gains in the Senate. #Midterms2018 pic.twitter.com/5qkV1iLw9G
— Ian Jones (@ian_a_jones) November 7, 2018
So who came off best?
They were billed as a referendum on Mr Trump’s presidency, but overall the voters have delivered a mixed verdict in the midterms. Both parties can claim partial victories, although the Democrats’ hoped-for “blue wave” has not materialised. Mr Trump tweeted that the night had been a “tremendous success”.
Tremendous success tonight. Thank you to all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 7, 2018
A historic night nonetheless
Democratic candidate Rashida Tlaib became the first Muslim woman to be elected to Congress after she was comfortably installed as representative of Michigan’s 13th District. She was followed by the second Muslim woman to be elected to the chamber, Ilhan Omar, in Minnesota’s 5th District. Jared Polis became Colorado’s first openly gay governor.
Voters were urged to stay in their queues amid reports of technical malfunctions with machines leading to long lines at polling stations in several states. Former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said it was still possible to cast a ballot if they were in line when stations closed.
Remember, Georgia: If you’re in line when the polls close at 7pm, you can still cast a ballot—so stay in line and vote! While the GOP has been trying to make this election about anything but the future you want for your families, you are on the verge of making history.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) November 6, 2018
Twitter view
I think with a lot of high hopes crashing for Democratic voters in places like Florida and with Beto, there is maybe a drastic underappreciation of how Democratic control of the House will change the course of this country. Ladies and gentlemen, this is a very big deal.
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) November 7, 2018
