Iran war fallout: Republicans US midterm poll debacle puts President Donald Trump under pressure
India Today ·
On News Track, anchor Maria Shakeel examines the political fallout of the US midterm elections, where the Democratic takeover of both houses of Congress follows widespread voter discontent over the war in Iran. While US Vice President JD Vance blamed the conflict for Republican losses, Donald Trump acknowledged its toll on approval ratings but maintained he had no regrets. Experts Dr Wael Awad and Professor Allan Lichtman analyse whether Trump will double down on military action or seek an exit strategy amid domestic backlash and rising fuel costs. Lichtman argues Trump will look to shift blame to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, while Awad outlines possible negotiated pathways to end the conflict. The programme also highlights Democrat Abdul El-Sayed's historic victory as the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, defeating Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan. Dr Alia Nazneen Jukaku, the aunt of El-Sayed's wife, joins from Bhatkal, Karnataka, detailing family celebrations and El-Sayed's focus on healthcare and living costs.