Is Trump really a ‘lame duck’ after losing both houses of US Congress?

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Democrats have won control of both houses of the US Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, a shift that sharply reduces President Donald Trump’s ability to shape the legislative agenda. Trump reacted publicly with mixed signals: he said he was prepared to accept the results and work with Democrats, while also using social media to emphasize his veto power and suggest he would resist legislation he opposes.

The article says critics are already describing Trump as a “lame duck,” a term usually used for leaders nearing the end of their time in office or otherwise losing political influence. In this case, the phrase reflects the loss of Republican control of Congress and the expectation that Trump will face more difficulty persuading lawmakers to back his priorities. Still, Al Jazeera notes that a president retains substantial executive authority even after midterm losses.

According to the report, Trump can still rely on executive orders, emergency powers and the presidential veto. Because Democrats do not control enough votes to override a veto, they may struggle to block his use of that tool. The piece also says Trump has already signaled he may veto what he calls “insane” Democratic bills.

Al Jazeera adds historical context by pointing to earlier presidents who used their remaining time in office to advance policy through executive action, especially in foreign affairs. The broader significance is that divided government may slow Trump’s domestic agenda, but it does not leave him powerless, and the next two years could still bring confrontation over legislation, foreign policy and executive authority.