Foreign Leaders React to Democratic Midterm Sweep With 200 House Seats

Democratic candidates secured majorities in both chambers of Congress in Tuesday's elections. The win gives the party control of the House and Senate starting in January. Several international leaders who have faced off with President Donald Trump responded to the results on Wednesday.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez posted on X that American voters rejected policies he described as making people poorer. He said the vote was against hate, sexism, climate denial, and elite privilege. Sánchez has criticized U.S. military operations in Iran and disputes over NATO spending have strained relations between Madrid and Washington.

European Parliament Vice President Christel Schaldemose called the outcome a wild result. She expressed cautious optimism that the shift would support Ukraine and the green transition. Schaldemose urged Europeans to stand up for themselves on economic and digital policy.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the results offer a chance to unite on cost of living and the Middle East conflict. He stated he cannot bring down living costs until the conflict is resolved. The two leaders have differed on Israeli settlements, with Britain strengthening sanctions in September.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf claimed voters said no to war. He warned that if Washington betrays its public will, the country will learn its no comes with a nightmare. Energy prices surged during the war in Iran, a key issue for voters.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara took a more reserved view. He told reporters the alliance with Washington remains the cornerstone of Japan's foreign policy. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the victory would introduce a new era in world relations.

President Trump said Republicans would have won a landslide if his name was on the ballot. He congratulated Democrats on Tuesday night and said he would work with the new congressional majorities. Trump told Fox News reporter Bret Baier he would veto legislation he opposes, noting that both parties would eventually need to work together.