Democrats plot relentless probes of Trump White House as subpoena blitz looms after midterms

Election results could reshape presidency

Tuesday’s elections will help determine the course of Trump’s final two years in office. If voters reject Republicans, he could face substantially less political leverage at home and abroad.

Trump has urged voters to treat the election as a judgment on him, asking them to “pretend I’m on the ballot.” Democrats have welcomed his central role in the campaign, saying it draws attention to his record and the economy, voters’ leading concern. Sen. Andy Kim, a Democrat from New Jersey, said voters were focused on Trump and what he had done to them. The campaign’s aftermath could also shift attention toward the 2028 presidential race.

Democrats outline investigative targets

Senior Democrats expecting to win a majority in at least one chamber have described a broad investigative agenda. They plan to examine administration policies, officials’ conduct and ties between government personnel and private companies seeking influence.

Rep. Robert Garcia of California, expected to lead the House Oversight Committee if Democrats win the House, has highlighted immigration and detention policies. After visiting an ICE processing center in southern California, he outlined plans to seek accountability for the agency’s tactics.

Other potential targets include Trump family business dealings, the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation and allegations of corporate corruption. A majority would give Democrats committee control, more funding and staff, and subpoena authority.

Cabinet officials may face scrutiny

Democrats have also indicated they could pursue top Cabinet members, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They have criticized his role in the Iran war and described him as a strongly loyal Trump administration official.

At an October rally, House Democratic leader Jeffries said one of the majority’s first actions would be to “run Pete Hegseth out of town.” Trump told reporters he hoped that would not happen, but said presidents had faced similar situations and could use vetoes and negotiate deals. Trump has previously served with a Democratic-led House during the latter half of his first term. The article notes that he can use opposition as a political foil to rally party support and fundraising.

Trump’s closing campaign message

Trump’s final campaign appearances featured lengthy, meandering speeches that mixed support for local Republican candidates with other subjects. His remarks included Washington and White House renovations, including a planned giant ballroom, while often straying from issues such as fuel costs.

He also held a two-day, Trump-focused Republican convention in Dallas, where he led attendees in a pledge to vote. He promised $5,000 to every adult if Republicans win in November; the article characterized that promise as dubious.