Five Great Reads: Trump's setback, a nightmare cruise, and the pursuit of bigger

Democrats won control of both the US House of Representatives and Senate in a major election victory, significantly diminishing President Donald Trump's power. The result is seen as a strong repudiation of Trumpism, leaving his agenda vulnerable to legislative blocks and investigations. Guardian bureau chief David Smith called the outcome an "extinction-level event" for Trump's influence, with Democrats gaining the ability to impede his agenda and launch probes into his business and the Epstein files. A notable quote warns a wounded Trump could become more reckless and dangerous. The shift gives progressive lawmakers power to act as a "bulwark" against executive overreach starting in January. The article also explores how Republicans may respond and whether Trump's "cult-like" control over the party will erode.