Trump’s veto threat after losing Congress: what can he actually do?

President Donald Trump has threatened to use his presidential veto power extensively after Democrats won control of both the Senate and House in the US midterm elections, a major setback that will hamper his legislative agenda. He said he expects to issue vetoes for "a month or two" before seeking compromises. The veto allows Trump to block bills passed by Congress, though lawmakers can override it with a two-thirds majority in both chambers. He has used the veto twelve times across his two terms, and retains executive authority over foreign policy, tariffs, and immigration enforcement without congressional approval. Democratic control will likely create government deadlock, with investigations into Trump's administration expected and Senate power to block his nominees. However, Trump cannot declare war or ratify treaties without Congress, and experts suggest he may continue governing through executive orders rather than compromise.