Americans have voted in the midterm elections 2022 for members of the House of Representatives and Senate. During the midterm polls, the ballot majorly featured concerns ranging from abortion to the environment, from guns to sports betting, and even the legalisation of marijuana in some states.

Americans have voted in the midterm elections 2022 for members of the House of Representatives and Senate. During the midterm polls, the ballot majorly featured concerns ranging from abortion to the environment, from guns to sports betting, and even the legalisation of marijuana in some states. As per the partial results, Democrats have done better than expected as they avoided their worst fears of a 'Red Wave'. Meanwhile, Republicans hold out hope that they will retake both chambers of Congress. But the projected results show an interesting trend to highlight how some of the main referendums fared in the midterm polls in which the issues Democrats majorly cared were focused on abortion rights, while Republicans were concerned about inflation and the state of the economy. IN PICS | US midterm elections: Historic milestones marked by winning candidates in 2022 Marijuana Across the country, 19 of the 50 states and the US capital Washington DC have legalised the recreational use of marijuana for adults. Apart from that, the decriminalisation movement has been gaining strength. In the midterm polls, five states addressed the question including four conservative states. But the projected results appear to show a mixed night for marijuana on the ballot. Voters in Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota have rejected the measures. Meanwhile, the legalisation of marijuana won in Maryland and Missouri. Both states now bring the total where recreational use is allowed to 21. Abortion Abortion remained the hotly debated topic throughout the election process after the recent decision by Supreme Court. The court in June overturned the 1973 ruling enshrining abortion as a constitutional right, and left it up to individual US states to decide. In the midterm polls this year, abortion-related measures were on the ballot in six states. For the Kentucky Constitutional Amendment 2, 52.4% of voters said no to the 'No Right to Abortion'. An overwhelming 77.2% of voters said yes to Vermont Proposal 5, 'Constitutional Right to Reproductive Autonomy'. On the other hand, 56.7% of voters said yes to Michigan Proposal 3, 'Constitutional Right to Reproductive Freedom'. And 52.4% of voters said yes to Montana Legislative Referendum 131, Born-Alive Infants Regulation'. Around 65.0% of voters said yes to California Proposition 1, 'Constitutional Right to Reproductive Freedom'. The trends showed that a majority of people in the mentioned states have voted to uphold abortion rights. ALSO READ | Tight race makes life uncomfortable for Republicans and Donald Trump Gun control A rise in gun violence across the nation is a cause of major concern. In the midterm election, Iowa and Oregon addressed the controversial question of guns but with a twist. Iowa voters were asked to enshrine the "fundamental individual right" to "keep and bear arms" in the state constitution. Meanwhile, as per the measure on the ballot in Oregon, gun buyers must obtain a permit and ban sales of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. Iowa voters moved to expand gun rights in their state with the approval of Amendment 1, which might strengthen gun rights. Meanwhile, Oregon voters have passed one of the country’s strictest gun control measures. Prison slavery Slavery is an ancient problem in America. It's been more than 150 years since the US constitution banned chattel slavery. But in the midterms 2022, the states addressed an exception to the 13th Amendment which allows for forced labour by prisoners. This question was on the ballot in five states. Alabama, Louisiana, Oregon, Tennessee and Vermont voted to prohibit enslavement or involuntary servitude as punishment for crimes or payment of debts or fines. Voters in four states have approved ballot measures that will change their state constitutions to prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime, while those in a fifth state rejected a flawed version on the question. Notably, voters in four states have approved ballot measures, while a fifth state rejected a flawed version of the question. Alabama, Oregon, Tennessee and Vermont approved the measures that could curtail the use of prison labour. While Louisiana voters have rejected a ballot question. It asked the voter whether or not they supported an amendment to prohibit the use of involuntary servitude in jails. WATCH | US Midterm Elections and its global impact × Some Other measures In the midterm elections in 2022, climate change and the environment were overshadowed by other questions. In California, there was a proposal on the ballot to increase taxes on the state's wealthiest residents to help finance the shift to electric vehicles, but it got rejected. But voters in Massachusetts approved the measure. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From marijuana to abortion: How did referendums fare in US midterm polls 2022?

United States of America, the oldest democracy in the world is in a churn as midterm election day arrives. Midterm elections are generally a test for the incumbent president, President Joe Biden in this case, as they reflect people's mood after two years of rule by the governing party.

<h2>What are midterm elections?</h2>

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(Voters wait in line to cast their ballot for early voting at the Franklin County Board of Elections, on the eve of the US midterm elections, in Columbus, Ohio, on November 7, 2022. Image: AFP)

Midterm elections are essentially US Congressional elections. US Congress is made of two chambers, the House of Representatives and the Senate.

It is essential for both, Democratic and Republicans to maintain control of houses of the US Congress as it may bolster or limit their legislative political power based on who the president is.

Right now, as Democratic Party's Joe Biden is US President, Republican Party is sure to take efforts to control US Congress as it will give them power over the president.

<h2>How do the numbers stack up right now?</h2>

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(FILE PHOTO: Voting booths are pictured inside the Dona Ana County Government Center during early voting for the upcoming midterm elections in Las Cruces, New Mexico, U.S., October 24, 2022. Reuters)

The US House of Representatives, the lower house of the parliament, has 435 seats in total. Currently, Democratic Party holds a narrow lead with 220 seats to Republicans' 212. Three seats are currently vacant.

US Senate, the upper house, has 100 seats in all. Currently, Democrats and Republicans have 50 seats each. Democratic Party holds a wafer-thin majority with Vice-President Kamala Harris holding the casting vote in case of a tie.

<h2>How many seats are up for grabs?</h2>

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(A cyclist rides past political signs ahead of the November 8, 2022, U.S. midterm elections in the New York City suburb of Palisades, New York, U.S., October 27, 2022. REUTERS)

The contest is on for all 435 seats of House of Representatives. In Senate, 35 seats are in the pot.

<h2>Who has the momentum?</h2>

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Republican Party certainly has the wind in their sails. If they manage to capture majority in both houses, they will pose a great political challenge to President Joe Biden.

<h2>How many seats are needed?</h2>

In the House of Representatives, Republican Party needs a net gain of five seats to assume control. While in the Senate, a net gain of single seat will be enough for the reds (Republicans).

<h2>Close contests for House of Representatives</h2>

The race for seats in New York is tight. A new seat has been created post-Census. If Republicans win New York, it'll be enough for them to assume control of the House. But New York is roughly a liberal city so the contest will be exciting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-democrats-republicans-make-last-ditch-efforts-to-woo-voters-ahead-of-tuesdays-polls-532040">US midterms: Democrats, Republicans make last ditch efforts to woo voters ahead of Tuesday's polls</a>

Another close contest is in Virginia's 7th District. Here, former CIA officer and Democratic incumbent Abigail Spanberger is trying to defend her fort against Republican Party's Yesli Vega.

Michigan's 7th District is another interesting contest. Democrat Elissa Slotkin, also a CIA officer is running for reelection.

<h2>Battleground Senate</h2>

Race is heating up for Senate seats from Arizona, Nevada, Georgia and Pennsylvania. For Democrats, Pennsylvania is favourable place as they are expected to unseat the incumbent Republican. But Democratic candidate John Fetterman suffered a stroke just before he won the candidacy. Questions about his health have lingered on.

In Arizona, Nevada and Georgia Republicans are trying to win seats from Democratic incumbents.

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United States of America, the oldest democracy in the world is in a churn as midterm election day arrives. Midterm elections are generally a test for the incumbent president, President Joe Biden in this case, as they reflect people's mood after two years of rule by the governing party.

United States of America, the oldest democracy in the world is in a churn as midterm election day arrives. Midterm elections are generally a test for the incumbent president, President Joe Biden in this case, as they reflect people's mood after two years of rule by the governing party. What are midterm elections? (Voters wait in line to cast their ballot for early voting at the Franklin County Board of Elections, on the eve of the US midterm elections, in Columbus, Ohio, on November 7, 2022. Image: AFP) Midterm elections are essentially US Congressional elections. US Congress is made of two chambers, the House of Representatives and the Senate. It is essential for both, Democratic and Republicans to maintain control of houses of the US Congress as it may bolster or limit their legislative political power based on who the president is. Right now, as Democratic Party's Joe Biden is US President, Republican Party is sure to take efforts to control US Congress as it will give them power over the president. How do the numbers stack up right now? (FILE PHOTO: Voting booths are pictured inside the Dona Ana County Government Center during early voting for the upcoming midterm elections in Las Cruces, New Mexico, U.S., October 24, 2022. Reuters) The US House of Representatives, the lower house of the parliament, has 435 seats in total. Currently, Democratic Party holds a narrow lead with 220 seats to Republicans' 212. Three seats are currently vacant. US Senate, the upper house, has 100 seats in all. Currently, Democrats and Republicans have 50 seats each. Democratic Party holds a wafer-thin majority with Vice-President Kamala Harris holding the casting vote in case of a tie. How many seats are up for grabs? (A cyclist rides past political signs ahead of the November 8, 2022, U.S. midterm elections in the New York City suburb of Palisades, New York, U.S., October 27, 2022. REUTERS) The contest is on for all 435 seats of House of Representatives. In Senate, 35 seats are in the pot. Who has the momentum? Republican Party certainly has the wind in their sails. If they manage to capture majority in both houses, they will pose a great political challenge to President Joe Biden. How many seats are needed? In the House of Representatives, Republican Party needs a net gain of five seats to assume control. While in the Senate, a net gain of single seat will be enough for the reds (Republicans). Close contests for House of Representatives The race for seats in New York is tight. A new seat has been created post-Census. If Republicans win New York, it'll be enough for them to assume control of the House. But New York is roughly a liberal city so the contest will be exciting. Also Read | US midterms: Democrats, Republicans make last ditch efforts to woo voters ahead of Tuesday's polls Another close contest is in Virginia's 7th District. Here, former CIA officer and Democratic incumbent Abigail Spanberger is trying to defend her fort against Republican Party's Yesli Vega. Michigan's 7th District is another interesting contest. Democrat Elissa Slotkin, also a CIA officer is running for reelection. Battleground Senate Race is heating up for Senate seats from Arizona, Nevada, Georgia and Pennsylvania. For Democrats, Pennsylvania is favourable place as they are expected to unseat the incumbent Republican. But Democratic candidate John Fetterman suffered a stroke just before he won the candidacy. Questions about his health have lingered on. In Arizona, Nevada and Georgia Republicans are trying to win seats from Democratic incumbents. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US Midterm Elections 2022 explainer guide: What the fuss is all about

The crucial US midterms are just days away and both Democrats and Republicans are fighting for every vote they can snatch from the other. The campaign&nbsp;trail is still hot with US President Joe Biden, former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Donald Trump holding rallies across the country.&nbsp;

Biden told rallies in New York and Florida that a Republican win in Tuesday's midterm elections could weaken the US democracy. The Democrats, according to experts, are in a vulnerable position to lose control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. If the Republicans gain hold of even one chamber of the Congress, Biden will be left looking at a tough two years ahead.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/recent-statements-by-republicans-hint-they-might-deny-midterm-election-results-530731">Recent statements by Republicans hint they might deny midterm election results</a>

The Republicans have used inflation and rising crime rate as reasons to slam the Democrats, factors that look set to turn the tables in favour of the former. The Democrats held early leads in Georgia, Pennsylvania and Nevada, but that has all but effectively vanished now.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Biden has been talking about how several Republican candidates are gearing up to take a page from Trump's book and deny election results. "Democracy is literally on the ballot," he told students at Sarah Lawrence College, north of New York City. "You can't only love the country when you win."

Despite widespread anger over the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, following Trump's questioning of the election process, several Republicans still question Biden's win. An NBC poll says 65 per cent of Republican voters still view Biden’s presidency as illegitimate.

Meanwhile, Trump has used the last few campaigns to drop hints about a possible rerun in 2024. First in Iowa, he told the crowd in Sioux City that he will "very, very, very probably do it again" in 2024. He also brought up the topic of election fraud yet again, saying that he won by a huge margin in 2020.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-early-voting-begins-but-who-will-seize-momentum-528308">US midterm elections: Early voting begins, but who will seize momentum?</a>

"I ran twice. I won twice, and did much better the second time than I did the first, getting millions more votes in 2020 than I got in 2016. And likewise, getting more votes than any sitting president in the history of our country by far," Trump said.

Then on Sunday night, campaigning for &nbsp;Senator Marco Rubio in Miami, Florida, Trump said, "I will probably have to do it again, but stay tuned." However, he stopped short of criticising Governor Ron DeSantis in Florida, after earlier taking potshots at him during a rally in Pennsylvania, calling him “Ron DeSanctimonious.”&nbsp;

Notably, DeSantis is expected to be Trump's biggest rival in the race for 2024 if both of them decide to run the race for Republican nomination for president. Reports suggest that Trump is likely to announce his bid for 2024 sometime around mid-November.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;'I will very, very, very probably do it again': Donald Trump

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Meanwhile, several Democrats have moved beyond the topic of election deniers and taken up more practical matters, such as their work to lower prescription drug prices and defend Social Security. Abortion rights also remain a prominent topic, although opinion polls show that has faded as a top voter concern.

Vice President Kamala Harris visited Chicago and said Democrats could pass national abortion-rights legislation there if they can add to their margins in the Senate. "If we pick up two more senators, the president can sign it into law," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The crucial US midterms are just days away and both Democrats and Republicans are fighting for every vote they can snatch from the other. The campaign trail is still hot with US President Joe Biden, former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Donald Trump holding rallies across the country.

The crucial US midterms are just days away and both Democrats and Republicans are fighting for every vote they can snatch from the other. The campaign trail is still hot with US President Joe Biden, former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Donald Trump holding rallies across the country. Biden told rallies in New York and Florida that a Republican win in Tuesday's midterm elections could weaken the US democracy. The Democrats, according to experts, are in a vulnerable position to lose control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. If the Republicans gain hold of even one chamber of the Congress, Biden will be left looking at a tough two years ahead. Also Read | Recent statements by Republicans hint they might deny midterm election results The Republicans have used inflation and rising crime rate as reasons to slam the Democrats, factors that look set to turn the tables in favour of the former. The Democrats held early leads in Georgia, Pennsylvania and Nevada, but that has all but effectively vanished now. Meanwhile, Biden has been talking about how several Republican candidates are gearing up to take a page from Trump's book and deny election results. "Democracy is literally on the ballot," he told students at Sarah Lawrence College, north of New York City. "You can't only love the country when you win." Despite widespread anger over the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, following Trump's questioning of the election process, several Republicans still question Biden's win. An NBC poll says 65 per cent of Republican voters still view Biden’s presidency as illegitimate. Meanwhile, Trump has used the last few campaigns to drop hints about a possible rerun in 2024. First in Iowa, he told the crowd in Sioux City that he will "very, very, very probably do it again" in 2024. He also brought up the topic of election fraud yet again, saying that he won by a huge margin in 2020. Also Read | US midterm elections: Early voting begins, but who will seize momentum? "I ran twice. I won twice, and did much better the second time than I did the first, getting millions more votes in 2020 than I got in 2016. And likewise, getting more votes than any sitting president in the history of our country by far," Trump said. Then on Sunday night, campaigning for Senator Marco Rubio in Miami, Florida, Trump said, "I will probably have to do it again, but stay tuned." However, he stopped short of criticising Governor Ron DeSantis in Florida, after earlier taking potshots at him during a rally in Pennsylvania, calling him “Ron DeSanctimonious.” Notably, DeSantis is expected to be Trump's biggest rival in the race for 2024 if both of them decide to run the race for Republican nomination for president. Reports suggest that Trump is likely to announce his bid for 2024 sometime around mid-November. WATCH | 'I will very, very, very probably do it again': Donald Trump × Meanwhile, several Democrats have moved beyond the topic of election deniers and taken up more practical matters, such as their work to lower prescription drug prices and defend Social Security. Abortion rights also remain a prominent topic, although opinion polls show that has faded as a top voter concern. Vice President Kamala Harris visited Chicago and said Democrats could pass national abortion-rights legislation there if they can add to their margins in the Senate. "If we pick up two more senators, the president can sign it into law," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

US midterms 2022: Democracy at risk, says Biden, while Trump teases a presidential rerun in 2024

According to the recent poll by ABC News/Washington Post, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden and his Democratic Party are struggling ahead of the midterm elections. Meanwhile, the poll also shows that at least 56% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents in the party want someone else for the upcoming presidential elections in 2024. 
 
For the upcoming midterm election to be held in November&nbsp;this year, the poll shows that registered voters are divided between the candidates from the two major parties in American politics, Republicans (47%) and Democrats (46%) in their districts.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, only 35% of Dems and Democratic-leaning independents would choose Biden as a nominee for the 2024 presidential elections while others want to look for someone else.&nbsp;

Whereas in the Republican party, the votes are almost equal on whether or not former US president Donald Trump should be running for the 2024 elections. At least 47% of Republicans and GOP-leaning independents&nbsp;want Trump as their nominee while 46% want someone else representing their party in the presidential elections.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-donors-and-the-republican-party-have-paid-millions-for-trumps-legal-troubles-says-report-519374">US: Donors and the Republican party have paid millions for Trump’s legal troubles, claims report</a>

The poll also shows the close competition the two candidates would have if chosen, as at least 48% would vote for Biden and 46% for Trump, said the poll producers for ABC the Langer Research Associates.&nbsp;

However, the number is reversed for the two candidates when it comes to registered voters and this is amid Trump being embroiled in lawsuits and scandals, with nearly 52% of people wanting him to get charged with a crime following the FBI investigation and his supporters storming the US Capitol on January 6.

In Biden’s case, only 39% of people approve of his work till now, while 53% disapprove. As for the economy, amid soaring inflation at a 40-year high, the president’s approval rating in this context is 36% while seeing disapproval by 57% of people. However, the ratings are not all downhill for Biden and the Dems as at least 40% say that he has accomplished a lot since he took office. This is a 5% improvement since last year, said the report.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-bidens-approval-ratings-improve-2-months-before-mid-term-polls-517204">Joe Biden's approval ratings improve 2 months before mid-term polls</a>

The Democrats are also better trusted to handle the US Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v Wade which eliminated the constitutional right to an abortion, a ruling which a majority of Americans across the spectrum disagree with.

Notably, only 29% support it and at least 64% of people oppose it, said the poll, while 53% strongly oppose it and only 21% strongly support it. The people trust the Democrats more in comparison to the Republicans to handle abortion by at least 20 points. Additionally, 50% of people indicated that the GOP is too restrictive on abortion and 31% say Dems are too permissive.&nbsp;

In contrast, the GOP is better trusted to handle the economy overall by 19 points and inflation by 16 points when compared to the Democrats, the poll results show. Meanwhile, 74% say that the economy is in a bad shape which is up from 58% last year, months after Biden took office.&nbsp;

This can be a concern for the Dems given that the poll shows that people have placed more importance on the economy and inflation rather than abortion. At least 84% of participants call for the economy to be a priority in their vote for Congress and 76% say the same thing about inflation. Meanwhile, only 62% think of abortion being a top issue.&nbsp;

Another issue in which the GOP is in the lead is crime, with 14 points lead in trust to handle, while at least 69% say that it is a highly important issue. On the other hand, Dems have a lead of 23 points in trust for dealing with climate change, however, it is only important to less than 50%.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-mulls-declaring-climate-change-emergency-but-can-he-fight-off-his-colleagues-498760">Joe Biden mulls declaring 'Climate Change Emergency' but can he fight off his colleagues?</a>

The parties also run close on issues of education and schools, however, Democrats lead the trust with 6 points and immigration which is near equal. According to the report, “when these issues are assessed as a combination of importance and party preference, economy and inflation top list which is followed by abortion, then climate change, crime, education and immigration.”&nbsp;

The polls also show that 72% of the registered voters are certain about voting in the midterm elections in their district, while 66% said that voting for this election is more important to them than the past midterms.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

According to the recent poll by ABC News/Washington Post, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden and his Democratic Party are struggling ahead of the midterm elections.

According to the recent poll by ABC News/Washington Post, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden and his Democratic Party are struggling ahead of the midterm elections. Meanwhile, the poll also shows that at least 56% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents in the party want someone else for the upcoming presidential elections in 2024. For the upcoming midterm election to be held in November this year, the poll shows that registered voters are divided between the candidates from the two major parties in American politics, Republicans (47%) and Democrats (46%) in their districts. Meanwhile, only 35% of Dems and Democratic-leaning independents would choose Biden as a nominee for the 2024 presidential elections while others want to look for someone else. Whereas in the Republican party, the votes are almost equal on whether or not former US president Donald Trump should be running for the 2024 elections. At least 47% of Republicans and GOP-leaning independents want Trump as their nominee while 46% want someone else representing their party in the presidential elections. ALSO READ: US: Donors and the Republican party have paid millions for Trump’s legal troubles, claims report The poll also shows the close competition the two candidates would have if chosen, as at least 48% would vote for Biden and 46% for Trump, said the poll producers for ABC the Langer Research Associates. However, the number is reversed for the two candidates when it comes to registered voters and this is amid Trump being embroiled in lawsuits and scandals, with nearly 52% of people wanting him to get charged with a crime following the FBI investigation and his supporters storming the US Capitol on January 6. In Biden’s case, only 39% of people approve of his work till now, while 53% disapprove. As for the economy, amid soaring inflation at a 40-year high, the president’s approval rating in this context is 36% while seeing disapproval by 57% of people. However, the ratings are not all downhill for Biden and the Dems as at least 40% say that he has accomplished a lot since he took office. This is a 5% improvement since last year, said the report. ALSO WATCH: Joe Biden's approval ratings improve 2 months before mid-term polls The Democrats are also better trusted to handle the US Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v Wade which eliminated the constitutional right to an abortion, a ruling which a majority of Americans across the spectrum disagree with. Notably, only 29% support it and at least 64% of people oppose it, said the poll, while 53% strongly oppose it and only 21% strongly support it. The people trust the Democrats more in comparison to the Republicans to handle abortion by at least 20 points. Additionally, 50% of people indicated that the GOP is too restrictive on abortion and 31% say Dems are too permissive. In contrast, the GOP is better trusted to handle the economy overall by 19 points and inflation by 16 points when compared to the Democrats, the poll results show. Meanwhile, 74% say that the economy is in a bad shape which is up from 58% last year, months after Biden took office. This can be a concern for the Dems given that the poll shows that people have placed more importance on the economy and inflation rather than abortion. At least 84% of participants call for the economy to be a priority in their vote for Congress and 76% say the same thing about inflation. Meanwhile, only 62% think of abortion being a top issue. Another issue in which the GOP is in the lead is crime, with 14 points lead in trust to handle, while at least 69% say that it is a highly important issue. On the other hand, Dems have a lead of 23 points in trust for dealing with climate change, however, it is only important to less than 50%. ALSO READ: Joe Biden mulls declaring 'Climate Change Emergency' but can he fight off his colleagues? The parties also run close on issues of education and schools, however, Democrats lead the trust with 6 points and immigration which is near equal. According to the report, “when these issues are assessed as a combination of importance and party preference, economy and inflation top list which is followed by abortion, then climate change, crime, education and immigration.” The polls also show that 72% of the registered voters are certain about voting in the midterm elections in their district, while 66% said that voting for this election is more important to them than the past midterms.

Poll: Biden, his party struggle ahead of midterms, as most Dems look elsewhere for 2024

President Donald Trump is planning to make several key staffing changes as he prepares to deal with newly empowered Democrats and with the looming outcome of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

"I have three or four or five positions that I'm thinking about," Trump said in an interview with "Fox News Sunday."&nbsp;

"I need flexibility," he said.&nbsp;

Also read: P<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-fires-senior-advisor-criticized-by-first-lady-melania-177395">resident Trump fires senior advisor criticised by first lady Melania</a>

Trump did not rule out the possibility that his chief of staff John Kelly might be leaving. "At some point he's going to want to move on."

Democrats picked up at least 36 seats in the House of Representatives in the recent midterm elections, giving them control of the lower chamber.

Trump insisted that it was "historic" that Republicans were able to hold the Senate. But control of the House will allow Democrats to block much Trump-backed legislation, to issue subpoenas and to launch congressional inquiries into Russian involvement, Trump's taxes and finances, and other highly sensitive issues.

Democratic oversight

Vice President Mike Pence's chief of staff, Nick Ayers, has been widely reported to be a leading contender to replace Kelly -- should Trump decide to do so.&nbsp;

The 36-year-old Ayers has been described as a sharp-elbowed strategist with keen political instincts that might make him a better pick than Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, to navigate the perils of heightened Democratic oversight and the challenges of a Trump re-election campaign in 2020.

Trump also told Fox that "there's a chance" his homeland security secretary, Kirstjen Nielsen, might be replaced, saying "I like her very much... (but) I would like her to be much tougher on the border."

The president has made the security of the border with Mexico an overarching issue -- one seen to play well with his conservative base.

Another recent Trump staff change -- replacing Attorney General Jeff Sessions with his chief of staff, Matt Whitaker -- is seen by analysts as a bid to gird the administration for the long-awaited Mueller report on Russian interference.

Democrats bitterly criticized the appointment, noting that Whitaker has spoken in the past about how an attorney general could starve the Mueller team by cutting its budget.

'It's up to him'

But Trump told Fox he would not intervene if Whitaker tried to curtail the investigation.

"It's going to be up to him," he said. "I really believe he's going to do what's right. I would not get involved."

While Trump has attempted to put the best face on Republican losses in the House -- which were worse than the 2006 losses that then-President George W. Bush called a "thumping" -- the Democrats' gains underline the challenges Trump and party will face in 2020.

Republicans lost in big Southern cities like Houston and in three states -- Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin -- that were key to Trump's 2016 victory. They also lost by a wide margin among suburban women and independents.

Some otherwise supportive Trump voters have said he might be wise, given the recent losses, to moderate his tone, to be more inclusive and less divisive. But he indicated to Fox that he had no plan to do so.

"I think if I was a more modified, more moderate in that sense, I don't think I would have done half of the things that I was able to get completed," he said.&nbsp;

"You have people coming at you so hard that if you don't fight back in a somewhat vigorous way, you're not going to win, and we have to win. This country has to win."

The president added that 2020 will be different in a crucial way from this month's elections -- his name will be on the ballot.

President Donald Trump is planning to make several key staffing changes as he prepares to deal with newly empowered Democrats and with the looming outcome of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

President Donald Trump is planning to make several key staffing changes as he prepares to deal with newly empowered Democrats and with the looming outcome of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. "I have three or four or five positions that I'm thinking about," Trump said in an interview with "Fox News Sunday." "I need flexibility," he said. Also read: President Trump fires senior advisor criticised by first lady Melania Trump did not rule out the possibility that his chief of staff John Kelly might be leaving. "At some point he's going to want to move on." Democrats picked up at least 36 seats in the House of Representatives in the recent midterm elections, giving them control of the lower chamber. Trump insisted that it was "historic" that Republicans were able to hold the Senate. But control of the House will allow Democrats to block much Trump-backed legislation, to issue subpoenas and to launch congressional inquiries into Russian involvement, Trump's taxes and finances, and other highly sensitive issues. Democratic oversight Vice President Mike Pence's chief of staff, Nick Ayers, has been widely reported to be a leading contender to replace Kelly -- should Trump decide to do so. The 36-year-old Ayers has been described as a sharp-elbowed strategist with keen political instincts that might make him a better pick than Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, to navigate the perils of heightened Democratic oversight and the challenges of a Trump re-election campaign in 2020. Trump also told Fox that "there's a chance" his homeland security secretary, Kirstjen Nielsen, might be replaced, saying "I like her very much... (but) I would like her to be much tougher on the border." The president has made the security of the border with Mexico an overarching issue -- one seen to play well with his conservative base. Another recent Trump staff change -- replacing Attorney General Jeff Sessions with his chief of staff, Matt Whitaker -- is seen by analysts as a bid to gird the administration for the long-awaited Mueller report on Russian interference. Democrats bitterly criticized the appointment, noting that Whitaker has spoken in the past about how an attorney general could starve the Mueller team by cutting its budget. 'It's up to him' But Trump told Fox he would not intervene if Whitaker tried to curtail the investigation. "It's going to be up to him," he said. "I really believe he's going to do what's right. I would not get involved." While Trump has attempted to put the best face on Republican losses in the House -- which were worse than the 2006 losses that then-President George W. Bush called a "thumping" -- the Democrats' gains underline the challenges Trump and party will face in 2020. Republicans lost in big Southern cities like Houston and in three states -- Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin -- that were key to Trump's 2016 victory. They also lost by a wide margin among suburban women and independents. Some otherwise supportive Trump voters have said he might be wise, given the recent losses, to moderate his tone, to be more inclusive and less divisive. But he indicated to Fox that he had no plan to do so. "I think if I was a more modified, more moderate in that sense, I don't think I would have done half of the things that I was able to get completed," he said. "You have people coming at you so hard that if you don't fight back in a somewhat vigorous way, you're not going to win, and we have to win. This country has to win." The president added that 2020 will be different in a crucial way from this month's elections -- his name will be on the ballot.

Trump plans key staff changes at crucial point in presidency

US midterm elections 2018: Key faces of the campaign

A high-stakes battle over state-level offices is playing out in the November 6 elections, with Democrats and Republicans looking beyond Washington for more political firepower to resist or support President Donald Trump's agenda.

Democrats have targeted state races as a key part of their efforts to rebuild after their devastating White House defeat in 2016. This year, the party is fielding its largest slate of state legislative candidates in more than three decades.

Republicans vow to defend their dominance over state government. They hold 33 governorships and two-thirds of state legislative chambers.

Both parties increasingly view state laws and executive action as pivotal to shaping the debate around national issues such as healthcare, gun control and abortion rights. For Democrats, greater power in the states would allow them to push back against Trump and Republicans even if Democrats fail to gain control of the US Congress.

Here are four ways elections in the states will define the US&nbsp;political landscape for years to come:

Congressional redistricting

Hundreds of legislators elected this year will be in office when congressional district lines are redrawn after the 2020 census. In most states, the party in power will control how the districts are shaped.

Significant Democratic legislative losses under President Barack Obama allowed Republicans to draw lines favouring them after the 2010 census.

Voters in 36 states also are electing governors who will hold office during the redistricting process - and in some key states, they yield veto power over the congressional maps.

Keen for influence over redistricting, Democrats' top targets include open governors' seats in Florida, Michigan, Nevada and Ohio. In Wisconsin, Republican Governor Scott Walker is seen as vulnerable in his bid for a third term.

Heading into Election Day, Republicans appear highly competitive in many of the states where the future majority in Congress will be shaped. They also see a shot to pick up the top office in traditionally Democratic Connecticut and Oregon.

Diversity

In Georgia, Stacey Abrams is vying to be the nation's first black female governor - and her candidacy tests whether Democrats can win on Republican turf in the age of Trump by fielding diverse candidates.

Abrams' candidacy could inspire higher turnout among minority and younger voters, who tend to favour Democrats but do not reliably cast ballots in non-presidential election years. Andrew Gillum's bid to be Florida's first black governor has similar potential.

Both Democrats are running for open seats against Republican white males who have been accused of racially inflammatory tactics, allegations they deny. Ron DeSantis in Florida and Brian Kemp in Georgia have drawn the support of Trump.

A record number of women also are running for state office this year, mostly on the Democratic side.

Several competitive governor's races feature women candidates, including Democrats Abrams in Georgia, Laura Kelly in Kansas, Janet Mills in Maine, Gretchen Whitmer in Michigan, Michelle Lujan Grisham in New Mexico and Kate Brown in Oregon and Republicans Kim Reynolds in Iowa and Kristi Noem in South Dakota.

State power

History does not favour Republicans this year in the 46 states electing more than 6,000 legislators. In midterm elections, the party in the White House typically loses approximately 400 seats around the country, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Democrats believe they can pick up six to eight legislative chambers currently controlled by Republicans, with several more possibly in play.

States with legislatures where Democrats see a chance at gaining control include Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota and New Hampshire. In a particularly strong year, Democrats think they could also pick up chambers in Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.

"We are entirely on the offence this cycle, and Republicans are defending some tough terrain," said Jessica Post, executive director of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which leads the party's statehouse efforts.

Democrats may get a boost from groups engaged in long-shot legislative races. Forward Majority, a political action committee created this election cycle, is spending $9 million on some 120 contests in six battleground states - aiming to put enough seats into to play to give Democrats a chance at flipping chambers that are not generally considered winnable, such as the Texas House.

Republicans are targeting several narrowly divided legislatures where just a seat or two would give the party a voice in potential Democratic strongholds, such as New York and Connecticut.

2020 presidential roadmap

Democrats appear poised to win governor offices in the Midwestern and Rust Belt states that sealed Trump's 2016 victory, a potential drag on his re-election chances in two years.

Democratic gubernatorial candidates are leading or highly competitive in opinion polls in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states that typically vote Democratic in presidential elections but swung to Trump. These contests may foreshadow whether Trump can count on holding onto states that helped him to achieve an electoral college win, even as he lost the popular vote.

Most polls also show Gillum narrowly ahead in Florida, the largest state that swings between parties in presidential elections. Trump won Florida and having a Republican in the governor's office could help boost his re-election efforts.

Texas is another state to watch. If Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke comes even close to winning the U.S. Senate race against Republican incumbent Ted Cruz in the conservative states, it may portend shifting battle lines in the 2020 presidential maps.

Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott, however, is expected to win his re-election bid easily. 
&nbsp;

A high-stakes battle over state-level offices is playing out in the November 6 elections, with Democrats and Republicans looking beyond Washington for more political firepower to resist or support President Donald Trump's agenda.

A high-stakes battle over state-level offices is playing out in the November 6 elections, with Democrats and Republicans looking beyond Washington for more political firepower to resist or support President Donald Trump's agenda. Democrats have targeted state races as a key part of their efforts to rebuild after their devastating White House defeat in 2016. This year, the party is fielding its largest slate of state legislative candidates in more than three decades. Republicans vow to defend their dominance over state government. They hold 33 governorships and two-thirds of state legislative chambers. Both parties increasingly view state laws and executive action as pivotal to shaping the debate around national issues such as healthcare, gun control and abortion rights. For Democrats, greater power in the states would allow them to push back against Trump and Republicans even if Democrats fail to gain control of the US Congress. Here are four ways elections in the states will define the US political landscape for years to come: Congressional redistricting Hundreds of legislators elected this year will be in office when congressional district lines are redrawn after the 2020 census. In most states, the party in power will control how the districts are shaped. Significant Democratic legislative losses under President Barack Obama allowed Republicans to draw lines favouring them after the 2010 census. Voters in 36 states also are electing governors who will hold office during the redistricting process - and in some key states, they yield veto power over the congressional maps. Keen for influence over redistricting, Democrats' top targets include open governors' seats in Florida, Michigan, Nevada and Ohio. In Wisconsin, Republican Governor Scott Walker is seen as vulnerable in his bid for a third term. Heading into Election Day, Republicans appear highly competitive in many of the states where the future majority in Congress will be shaped. They also see a shot to pick up the top office in traditionally Democratic Connecticut and Oregon. Diversity In Georgia, Stacey Abrams is vying to be the nation's first black female governor - and her candidacy tests whether Democrats can win on Republican turf in the age of Trump by fielding diverse candidates. Abrams' candidacy could inspire higher turnout among minority and younger voters, who tend to favour Democrats but do not reliably cast ballots in non-presidential election years. Andrew Gillum's bid to be Florida's first black governor has similar potential. Both Democrats are running for open seats against Republican white males who have been accused of racially inflammatory tactics, allegations they deny. Ron DeSantis in Florida and Brian Kemp in Georgia have drawn the support of Trump. A record number of women also are running for state office this year, mostly on the Democratic side. Several competitive governor's races feature women candidates, including Democrats Abrams in Georgia, Laura Kelly in Kansas, Janet Mills in Maine, Gretchen Whitmer in Michigan, Michelle Lujan Grisham in New Mexico and Kate Brown in Oregon and Republicans Kim Reynolds in Iowa and Kristi Noem in South Dakota. State power History does not favour Republicans this year in the 46 states electing more than 6,000 legislators. In midterm elections, the party in the White House typically loses approximately 400 seats around the country, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Democrats believe they can pick up six to eight legislative chambers currently controlled by Republicans, with several more possibly in play. States with legislatures where Democrats see a chance at gaining control include Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota and New Hampshire. In a particularly strong year, Democrats think they could also pick up chambers in Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. "We are entirely on the offence this cycle, and Republicans are defending some tough terrain," said Jessica Post, executive director of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which leads the party's statehouse efforts. Democrats may get a boost from groups engaged in long-shot legislative races. Forward Majority, a political action committee created this election cycle, is spending $9 million on some 120 contests in six battleground states - aiming to put enough seats into to play to give Democrats a chance at flipping chambers that are not generally considered winnable, such as the Texas House. Republicans are targeting several narrowly divided legislatures where just a seat or two would give the party a voice in potential Democratic strongholds, such as New York and Connecticut. 2020 presidential roadmap Democrats appear poised to win governor offices in the Midwestern and Rust Belt states that sealed Trump's 2016 victory, a potential drag on his re-election chances in two years. Democratic gubernatorial candidates are leading or highly competitive in opinion polls in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states that typically vote Democratic in presidential elections but swung to Trump. These contests may foreshadow whether Trump can count on holding onto states that helped him to achieve an electoral college win, even as he lost the popular vote. Most polls also show Gillum narrowly ahead in Florida, the largest state that swings between parties in presidential elections. Trump won Florida and having a Republican in the governor's office could help boost his re-election efforts. Texas is another state to watch. If Democratic Congressman Beto O'Rourke comes even close to winning the U.S. Senate race against Republican incumbent Ted Cruz in the conservative states, it may portend shifting battle lines in the 2020 presidential maps. Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott, however, is expected to win his re-election bid easily.

Explainer: High-stakes state elections will shape US political power

Trump ramps up campaign as US midterm polls approach

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