Trump’s Post-Election Calm Surprises Experts, Who Warn of Unpredictability

Democrats won control of both the House and Senate in Tuesday's midterm elections, delivering a major defeat to Republicans and prompting an unusually calm public response from President Donald Trump that has surprised political observers and experts. Trump has attributed the Republican losses to his absence from the ballot, repeatedly threatened to use his veto power against Democratic legislation, and focused public attention on White House projects like a new ballroom. Clinical psychologist Denise Dudley described his demeanor as "impression management," suggesting he is projecting confidence and control to preserve his authority and minimize the significance of the setback. Experts remain uncertain how Trump will behave as Democrats assume power, with some predicting defensive or childish strategies if Democrats pursue aggressive policy changes. Therapist Shenikka Moore-Clarke cautioned against trusting his calm appearance, noting his unpredictability, while advising the public to focus on policy goals rather than his reactions.