U.S. Midterms 2026: What A Trump Setback Could Mean For India-U.S. Trade

The November 3 U.S. midterm elections could reshape Donald Trump’s relationship with Congress — and have major implications for India. With all 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats up for election, a shift in congressional control could bring greater scrutiny of Trump’s tariff policy, trade negotiations and economic agenda. For New Delhi, the stakes go beyond American domestic politics. The India-US interim trade agreement framework, the proposed 18% reciprocal tariff, market access negotiations and India’s strategic partnership with Washington are all part of the equation. But even if Democrats gain control of Congress, Trump’s executive trade powers will not simply disappear. With China, defence cooperation and technology partnerships also in play, the bigger question is whether India can protect its interests regardless of who controls Washington.