How Trump's veto power shapes the post-midterm agenda

Democrats' sweeping midterm victory gave them majorities in both chambers, setting up a confrontation with President Donald Trump, who retains the constitutional power to veto legislation and has signaled he will use it. Trump can issue a regular veto, returning a bill unsigned, which Congress can only override with a two-thirds majority in both chambers—a threshold Democrats will not meet. He also holds the pocket veto, which kills a bill if Congress adjourns within his 10-day review period and cannot be overridden. Beyond formal vetoes, Trump can shape legislation through veto threats and official policy statements, pressuring lawmakers to alter bills before passage. Democrats can still challenge him via investigations, subpoenas, and scrutiny of his administration.