Biden Takes Victory Lap In First Remarks After Midterms

Topline

President Joe Biden congratulated Democrats on Wednesday for what he said were strong midterm performances in his first comments since the election, while acknowledging he is “prepared to work with my Republican colleagues” if the GOP takes control of one or both chambers of Congress.

President Joe Biden arrives to speak in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington on … [+] Wednesday. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Key Facts

Biden said “Democrats had a strong night,” which he said was a sign voters remain confident in his agenda.

The president said he’s “ready to compromise with Republicans where it makes sense” but outlined several issues he’s adamantly opposed to, such as a national abortion ban, cuts to Social Security or rolling back climate protections.

Biden stated he believes the voters made it “clear that they’re still frustrated,” and said tackling inflation remains a top priority for his administration.

Crucial Quote

“Let me say this: regardless of what the final tally in these elections show, and there’s still some final counting going on, I’m prepared to work with my Republican colleagues,” Biden said.

What To Watch For

Control of the Senate and House has not yet been called but Democrats appear in a position to potentially remain in control of the Senate, while Republicans are on track to narrowly win the House.

Key Background

Political observers were widely expecting a “red wave” of GOP victories in major races across the country but the results so far reflect little more than a Republican ripple. The GOP failed to win either of the two highest-profile Senate races outright, with Mehmet Oz falling to Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman in the keystone state’s contest and Republican challenger Herschel Walker being forced into a runoff against incumbent Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock in Georgia. Republican candidates largely ran campaigns trying to tie their Democratic opponents to Biden, who they blame for skyrocketing inflation and other economic woes. Republicans also believed Biden’s low approval rating (around 41%, according to FiveThirtyEight) would lead to big gains, but Democrats appear on pace to lose fewer seats than the sitting president’s party typically does in a midterm election.

Contra

A nationwide NBC News exit found 67% of voters do not want Biden to run for reelection in 2024.

Tangent

Former President Donald Trump is reportedly furious with the midterm results, especially Oz’s loss. New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman tweeted Wednesday that Trump is blaming those who advised him to endorse Oz, including his wife, Melania.