US midterm voters deliver verdict on Trump's second term

Millions of Americans voted in US midterm elections on Tuesday, with results set to determine control of Congress and define the final two years of Donald Trump's presidency. Democrats expressed cautious optimism about regaining the House and Senate. Opinion polls showed voters prioritizing the cost of living, with nearly half reporting their household finances had deteriorated since Trump took office in January 2025. Democrats need a net gain of three House seats and four Senate seats to take both chambers, with competitive races in Texas, Kansas, Michigan, and Alaska. The elections are widely seen as a referendum on Trump's second term, with his approval rating at record lows. A Democratic takeover could enable investigations and block presidential nominees. Over 57 million Americans voted early, and the campaign is projected to cost $11.9bn.