Republicans search for reasons after midterm defeat

Republicans are searching for explanations after a massive defeat in the midterm elections, while Democrats plan to take control of Congress. All voter groups turned away from Donald Trump's party, according to post-election analyses. The Democrats are projected to win over 250 of 435 House seats and at least 54 Senate seats. White House strategists reportedly saw the unpopular Iran war as a main cause, a message Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance have now adopted publicly. Vance also cited inflation and Israel relations, positioning himself for a potential 2028 presidential run. Criticism is emerging from within conservative circles, including from Ron DeSantis and Ted Cruz, though explicit attacks on Trump remain rare. Trump himself has stayed largely out of sight, while Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has applied for Speaker and promised to focus on lowering living costs.