Democratic sweep reshapes Washington's political landscape

Democrats capitalized on a sweeping congressional victory to enter a new political era, pledging to address the high cost of living and confront the final years of President Donald Trump's administration. The party secured decisive majorities in both the House and Senate, reshaping power in Washington. The results represent a fundamental reconfiguration, with Democrats promising a 100-day agenda focused on lowering gas and grocery prices, reversing healthcare cuts, and launching oversight investigations. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries is set to become the first Black House Speaker, while Republicans face internal reckoning over their losses. Vice President JD Vance blamed the war in Iran for Republican defeats, a view Trump acknowledged while defending the conflict. The new Congress will also welcome historic firsts, including the first openly gay senator and first Muslim senator, as divided government threatens potential gridlock and a possible federal shutdown.