Democrats project 255-seat House majority as they vow to cut costs

Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries projects his party will secure at least 255 seats in the House of Representatives once all votes are counted. This number would grant Democrats a historic majority in the lower chamber of Congress. The party also took control of the Senate, giving it command of both legislative bodies.

The shift in power follows midterm elections held on Tuesday. Democrats defeated Republican incumbents in several strongholds. Jeffries described the results as an "American tsunami" at a news conference on Wednesday. He noted that the outcome was more than a simple partisan swing.

Jeffries stated that voters selected common sense over chaos. He promised a relentless effort to make life more affordable for everyday Americans. The party campaigned on reducing the rising costs of groceries, petrol, housing, and healthcare. These expenses have left many households feeling financially squeezed.

The new Congress is scheduled to take office in January. Jeffries will become the first Black Speaker of the House. He said the party intends to govern based on the affordability platform that won the election. He emphasized that the focus is on delivering results rather than seeking revenge against President Donald Trump or his allies.

Jeffries acknowledged that the President has threatened to use his veto power to block new laws. This could make it difficult to pass legislation even with a congressional majority. He pointed to a bipartisan housing affordability bill passed in July as a model for future work.

That housing bill became law without the President's signature after he dismissed it as unimportant. Jeffries said Democrats would work to hold the administration accountable for any wrongdoing. He added that the party would follow the facts and the law while letting the chips fall where they may.