Trump-backed candidates lose dozens of midterm races, raising doubts about his sway

Donald Trump-backed Republican candidates suffered major losses in US midterm elections, with dozens defeated across Senate, governor, and House races, raising questions about the president's political influence. Guardian analysis showed only half of Trump's 26 Senate endorsements won, while 12 of 23 gubernatorial picks were defeated. House endorsements fared better at roughly 60%, but 46 lost overall, amid Trump's approval rating near 36%. Notable upsets included Texas Senate loss by Ken Paxton, ending a 38-year Democratic drought, and defeats in South Carolina and North Carolina. Democrats flipped five governor seats and over two dozen House seats, reflecting voter frustration with the economy.