Trump defends Iran policy amid GOP midterm losses

President Donald Trump visited the unfinished ballroom at the White House on Wednesday to discuss the project, even as Democrats secured major victories in the 2026 midterm elections.

With votes still being counted, Democrats have won at least seven Senate seats and 28 House seats. The party’s losses prompted internal debate over the causes of the defeat.

Vice President JD Vance posted on X that the primary reason for the loss was the war with Iran. Vance has opposed the conflict since it began.

Trump stood in the construction site of the ballroom and agreed with Vance’s assessment. He said the conflict drove gasoline prices up in the short term.

“Well, I think it’s largely true because it drove the gasoline up a little bit short term,” Trump said. “And probably that’s probably it’s true. But at the same time, if I had to do again, I’d have to do it again, because long term it’s the only answer. You can’t let Iran have a nuclear weapon.”

In post-election interviews, Trump said he is willing to accept the results and work with congressional Democrats. He also stated he will use his veto power to block Democratic legislation to force negotiations with the White House.