60% of voters say Trump's tariffs hurt the economy

The upcoming midterm elections will define the final two years of Donald Trump's presidency.

If Republicans lose control of Congress on Tuesday, Democrats will lead investigations into the administration's policies and business dealings. This scenario could also trigger a third impeachment attempt.

Political attention will simultaneously turn to the 2028 presidential race as candidates begin to vie for the nomination.

Trump has framed the midterms as a direct referendum on his leadership. He urged voters to "pretend I'm on the ballot," a strategy designed to mobilize his base. Democrats welcomed this approach, arguing it clarifies who voters should hold responsible for economic conditions.

Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey noted the personal nature of the campaign. "Trump's desire to have everyone think that he's on the ballot? Like, it's happening," Kim said. "Everyone is thinking about him and the harm that he has done to them directly."

Recent polling data reflects this skepticism. An AP Voter Poll found that about two-thirds of voters nationally believe Trump's policies have worsened the U.S. economy. Only about three in ten said conditions have improved. Similarly, roughly two-thirds stated that his tariff policies have hurt the national or local economy.

Views on his leadership capabilities are also negative. More than half of voters said Trump is not a strong leader or lacks the mental capability to serve effectively. About six in ten voters believe he prioritizes his personal interests over the country's, compared to about four in ten who believe the opposite.

If Republicans retain their majorities, Trump will emerge with stronger control over his party. He has campaigned heavily in conservative states where he maintains high approval ratings. On Election Day, he plans to watch results from a private reception at the White House.

Democratic leaders have outlined their investigative priorities should they win a chamber. California Representative Robert Garcia, who would lead the House Oversight Committee if Democrats take the House, plans to examine immigration and detention policies. He recently visited an ICE processing center in southern California to demand accountability for agency tactics.

Other targets include the Trump family's business dealings and the administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Democrats would use subpoena powers to compel responses, while the White House may assert executive privilege to slow the process.

Hakeem Jeffries, a potential House speaker, indicated the new majority might target top cabinet members rather than the president immediately. He named Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as a prime candidate for removal. "I'm here to say, one of the first things we're going to do in the majority, we're going to run Pete Hegseth out of town," Jeffries said.

Trump has braced for legislative battles, citing his "strong veto" power. He told reporters that he has dealt with Democratic opposition before and that deals can be worked out. To boost turnout, he held a two-day Republican convention in Dallas and promised to send $5,000 to every adult if his party wins.