Trump Tells CBS He Will Use Veto and “Tremendous Powers” if Democrats Win

Trump spoke by phone with CBS News correspondent Robert Costa on Tuesday, before polls closed. Asked about a Democratic-controlled Congress, he said: “I have the ultimate power — it’s called ‘veto,’” CBS News reported.

Trump welcomed the nickname “Mr. Veto” for his approach to Democrats. He said repeated vetoes would eventually push them to the table.

“Historically, you veto for a couple of months and then they come and say, ‘We’ve got to make a deal.’”

Slaughter Ruling Cited

Trump pointed to Trump v. Slaughter, this year’s 6-3 Supreme Court decision that let him fire FTC member Rebecca Slaughter. He said it gives him sweeping control over federal agencies, boards and commissions.

The ruling, he said, “gives the president tremendous powers that it never had before.” He added that the presidency is “considered a strong presidency. You can do a lot.”

Two people close to Trump told CBS that talks on more executive action involve Stephen Miller and Russell Vought. Immigration and trade are among the issues under discussion.

Midterm Outlook

CBS polling in late October suggested Republicans could lose the House. Our live coverage tracks the results as they come in.

Trump said his rally tour helped turn a possible blue wave into a closer race. He made no firm prediction.

“Will we win? We have a good chance. But we’re not going to be embarrassed,” he said.

Democrats have already signaled they would open investigations if they win control, Clash Report reported. Trump also said he is not yet discussing a 2028 run with advisers.