Biden will expect divided government after midterms

Significance

As President Joe Biden campaigns as leader of the Democratic Party ahead of November’s midterm elections, he will be preparing for the prospect of a Republican-controlled House, Senate or both from January and considering whether to run again in 2024.

Impacts

• Biden’s immediate priority will be to show his effectiveness in fundraising and campaigning for the Democratic party.
• White House hopes of bipartisan legislation will fade as Republican senators eye a run for their party’s presidential nomination.
• One White House response to divided government will be a greater emphasis on foreign policy, where Congress is less involved.
• Harris will be trying to demonstrate that she is both an effective partner for Biden and his potential successor.