USA AP and broadcaster: Republicans secure majority in the Senate

The Republicans have secured a majority in the Senate in the US congressional elections.

This was reported by the AP news agency and the Fox News channel on the basis of voter surveys and initial vote counts. Until now, the Democrats had a wafer-thin majority in the chamber of Congress. They also owed this to the support of four independent senators who regularly voted with them and thus helped to form a majority.

The key to the Republicans' important success in the Senate was the victory of Republican Senator Deb Fischer from the state of Nebraska. She defended her hard-fought seat against independent candidate Dan Osborn, helping her party over the hurdle to gain control of the House.

Support in Congress hugely important for US President

A US president who does not enjoy the support of both houses of parliament often faces major domestic challenges. Parliament has budgetary sovereignty and the right to propose legislation. The Senate, on the other hand, plays a decisive role in the confirmation of high-ranking government personnel decisions. Without a majority, a president may have difficulties filling ministerial posts, ambassadorships and judgeships, as all high-ranking appointments must be confirmed by the Senate. The House of Representatives therefore has considerable influence on the government's personnel policy and ability to function.

The vote on the composition of the US Congress took place at the same time as the presidential election, with all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 34 of the 100 seats in the Senate up for election. In addition, referendums were held in numerous states on sometimes highly controversial issues - from questions on abortion to the legalization of marijuana.

The counting in the congressional elections is not yet over - the Democrats are hoping to take over the majority in the House of Representatives.

SDA