The government of Donald Trump, the President of the United States, after losing the Republican majority in the Senate and the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, seems to be recognized as a "lame duck." While Democratic control over both chambers of Congress has limited Trump's power in determining domestic policies, he can still make decisions unilaterally in foreign policy.
Trump's Power in Foreign Policy Making
Trump still has the legal authority to unilaterally increase or decrease military pressure, especially regarding the war with Iran. He also has the right to determine the terms of U.S. treaties and alliances, including those related to the war in Russia and Ukraine, and does not need Congressional approval to impose economic tariffs.
Trump has acknowledged that the ongoing war with Iran has led to the defeat of the Republicans in both chambers of Congress, but he has no regrets and emphasized that he will "do it again" because preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a long-term necessity.
Strategic Goals and Consequences
Trump has outlined four main goals for the U.S. and Israel's war with Iran, which include preventing the development of nuclear weapons, destroying Iran's missile stockpiles and production capabilities, regime change, and ending the financing and arming of Iran's proxy groups. These goals have been fully endorsed by all members of his cabinet.
Despite the Republicans' defeat in the 2026 elections, Trump still believes that he should not show weakness in foreign policies, especially regarding Iran. He has specifically acknowledged that he does not want to suffer the same fate as Jimmy Carter, who was humiliated due to weakness in negotiations with Iran in 1979.
Trump seeks to maintain a power that he can pass on to the next generation and therefore aims to create a government aligned with himself in the future to thwart any punitive actions or impeachment attempts by the Democrats.
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