Democrats gained control of both the US House and Senate in the midterm elections, marking a dramatic shift from Donald Trump’s victory two years ago. However, with Trump still in the White House and neither chamber holding a two-thirds Democratic majority, major federal climate and energy legislation is unlikely. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 highlight how unified government enabled sweeping policy changes—now impossible under divided leadership.
Despite legislative gridlock, Democrats will scrutinize Trump appointees, including EPA Commissioner Lee Zeldin, and use subpoena power to investigate agency cuts. At the state level, Democrats seized control in Pennsylvania and Georgia’s Public Service Commission, signaling renewed support for renewables and emissions reductions. Notably, 41 local ballot measures targeting data centers were overwhelmingly rejected by voters, indicating growing local resistance to tech infrastructure expansion.
Permitting reform remains a potential bipartisan focal point, with the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act set for a Senate vote on November 9. Though its passage is uncertain, any new deal would still require Trump’s approval, limiting its scope.
Source: MIT Technology Review · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing