WASHINGTON, November 4 – A former member of President Donald Trump’s transition team said he would use the executive branch to squeeze Democratic legislation if the 2026 midterm elections give the party control of both chambers of Congress. The warning comes as the U.S. prepares for a massive election that will decide one‑third of the Senate and all 435 seats in the House.
The retired official, who worked on the Trump team for several months, told TASS that Democrats could win the House and Senate but would still need the president’s signature to turn bills into law. If the midterm elections give Democrats control of both the House and Senate, expect little legislative activity in the 120th Congress.
Speaking before the quote, the former senior U.S. official added, “Policy will increasingly be driven by presidential executive orders, regulatory actions, and memoranda. Congressional Democrats, meanwhile, will devote much of their attention to investigations and oversight of the executive branch.”
Under this scenario, the 120th Congress – which will convene on January 3, 2027 – would see a slowdown in new laws, with the president’s executive orders becoming the main tool for shaping policy. The official highlighted that the administration would still hold significant sway over legislation even if the Senate and House are controlled by Democrats.
American voters are also electing governors in 36 states and territories during these midterms, adding another layer of potential policy change. How the battle plays out will determine whether Congress keeps its hands on the law‑making process or whether the president’s executive actions become the dominant force in Washington.
