Top takeaways from the US midterm elections

Americans went to the polls on Tuesday in midterm elections that will determine who controls Congress for the final two years of President Donald Trump’s term. The polls showed an electorate in an overwhelmingly sour mood. Many said they feel worse off than two years ago and nearly 9 in 10 identified the cost of living as a crucial or major factor in their vote, signaling that the elections could prove a repudiation of ⁠Trump and his Republican Party.

The exit polls were released before any election results were announced, but they offered an early barometer of voter discontent. When Trump took office, he promised to fix high inflation fast, but a majority of voters said they think his policies - including the Iran war and tariffs on foreign goods - have made the country’s economic situation worse. Nearly two-thirds blamed Trump for high prices, with three-quarters saying they were either angry or dissatisfied with the direction of the country, suggesting a nation hungry for change.

Voters also expressed concern over government corruption.