Schumer declares new Senate era as Democrats take control

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters Wednesday that the midterm results represent a "generational remake of the Senate map." He spoke outside the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee in Washington, D.C.

Democrats now hold a 54-seat majority in the upper chamber. This count includes two independent senators who caucus with the party. The party's gains were concentrated in states President Trump had previously carried.

Victories were secured in Iowa, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas. Kansas produced a historic result by electing its first Democratic senator in 94 years. Two races in Alaska and Mississippi have not yet been called.

Schumer, who is expected to become Senate Majority Leader in January, attributed the wins to candidates who tailored their messages to local voters. He noted that voters entrusted the party with a majority to deliver on their priorities, not to act freely.

The new leadership intends to focus on lowering the cost of living, ending the Iran war, and investigating White House corruption allegations. Schumer stated that the days of a compliant Senate are over. President Trump has indicated he will use vetoes on Democratic bills but has shown some willingness to negotiate.

"We are going to work hard to drive costs down with the president or without him," Schumer said.