Trump Admits Iran War Hurt Republicans in Midterm Elections but Vows He Would Make Same Decision Again

Washington, D.C. (Terror Monitor) — US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the war against Iran and the resulting increase in gasoline prices contributed significantly to the Republican Party's defeat in the 2026 midterm elections, but defended his decision to launch the military campaign, insisting he would make the same decision again.

The Democratic Party secured control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in Tuesday's midterm elections, delivering a major political setback to Trump's Republican Party and giving Democrats control of Congress for the final two years of his presidency.

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, November 4, Trump was asked whether he agreed with Vice President JD Vance's assessment that the war with Iran was responsible for the Republicans' electoral defeat.

"I think it's largely true because it drove the gasoline up a little bit short term, and probably that's true," Trump said, acknowledging the economic consequences of the conflict.

However, the president insisted that the military campaign was necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

"But at the same time, if I had it 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 war," he added.

Trump's remarks represented an acknowledgment that the conflict had damaged his party's electoral prospects, although he continued to defend the military operation as necessary for US national security.

Vance directly blames Iran war for Republican defeat

Vice President JD Vance delivered a more direct assessment of the Republican losses, explicitly identifying the war against Iran as the principal reason for the party's electoral setback.

In a lengthy statement posted on social media platform X on Wednesday, Vance wrote: "The reason we lost is the war."

He argued that Republicans needed to acknowledge the political consequences of the conflict rather than avoid responsibility for the election results.

"If you'd like to argue it was worth it, that losing the Senate for the next six years was worth it, then do so. Argue it was a worthwhile cost to pay. Agree or disagree, that's at least honest," Vance said.

According to Reuters, Vance's comments raised questions about possible differences within the administration over the handling and political costs of the war.

The vice president also pointed to the rising cost of living and the need for Republicans to refocus on domestic economic concerns.

The Democratic victories have significantly weakened Trump's legislative position, giving the opposition greater authority to scrutinise his administration, investigate government policies and challenge his domestic agenda.

Trump warns Democrats against impeachment

Despite expressing willingness to cooperate with the newly empowered Democratic leadership, Trump warned that attempts to impeach him could have serious political consequences for the opposition party.

The president said he was prepared to work with Democrats on legislation and other matters but cautioned them against launching what he described as an unjustified impeachment effort.

"I think it would destroy the Democratic Party if they did it," Trump said.

He maintained that there were no grounds for his impeachment and suggested that Democrats would face a political backlash if they pursued such action.

Trump was impeached twice by the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives during his first presidential term, in 2019 and 2021. However, the Senate acquitted him in both trials, allowing him to remain in office.

The Democratic takeover of both chambers of Congress could nevertheless open the way for renewed investigations into administration decisions and the conduct of senior officials.