Democrats prepare investigations and economic showdown with Trump after midterm victory - report

Democrats are preparing to use their congressional majority to investigate Donald Trump’s administration and challenge key policies during the final two years of his presidency, according to TIME.

After winning control of the House of Representatives and the Senate, party leaders are weighing investigations, efforts to block appointments and legislative challenges to the president’s economic and foreign policies.

Their priority is the cost of living. Proposals include rolling back some Trump tariffs, restoring federal health insurance subsidies and reversing nearly $1 trillion in cuts to public health programs. Passing those measures into law, however, would require overcoming White House opposition.

Control of congressional committees will give Democrats substantial investigative powers, including the ability to subpoena officials and seek administration records.

Potential inquiries include Trump’s cryptocurrency ventures, his social media platform Truth Social, the aircraft gifted by Qatar and allegations of preferential treatment for donors.

Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, could also face questions about potential conflicts between his diplomatic work in the Middle East and his investment fund’s financial relationships in Gulf states. Kushner and the White House have denied wrongdoing.

Democrats remain divided over whether to pursue another impeachment of Trump. Supporters favor a direct effort to hold the president accountable, while others argue that proceedings could overshadow the party’s economic agenda. Conviction would require a two-thirds Senate majority, which Democrats do not hold.

Some lawmakers are also reportedly considering proceedings against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over controversies surrounding US military operations in Iran.

Democrats could introduce a war powers resolution during the opening week of the new congressional session, seeking to require Trump to end the conflict or obtain congressional authorization to continue it. Their ability to compel compliance would face obstacles, although congressional control over military spending could offer additional leverage.

Policy toward Israel presents another potential fault line. Newly elected lawmakers on the Democratic left want votes on measures blocking certain arms sales, while House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and many centrists remain strong supporters of Israel.

According to a Reuters report, Democratic control could bring closer scrutiny of military assistance, weapons transfers and Israeli actions in the West Bank and Gaza. Trump’s veto power would nevertheless constrain major legislative changes.

The congressional agenda will also shape the party’s preparations for the 2028 presidential election. Democrats hope to demonstrate that they can address economic pressures and provide a credible governing alternative, even when the White House blocks their proposals.

Their new majority will test whether they can reconcile competing demands within the party: a push for more progressive policies and calls to rebuild support among centrist and working-class voters.