The conflict with Iran contributed to the Republican Party , said trump (Img: X)
Washington: US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the conflict with Iran contributed to the Republican Party's disappointing performance in the 2026 midterm elections. However, despite recognising the political consequences, Trump has defended the military operation, insisting that preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a priority.
According to the reports, Trump backed Vice President JD Vance's assessment that the Iran war played a significant role in the Republican electoral setback.
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Trump described Vance's argument as largely accurate, pointing to rising petrol prices as one of the factors that may have frustrated voters.
He maintained that the increase in fuel costs had created short term economic pressure but argued that the military operation was necessary for America's long-term security interests.
The president also made it clear that the political fallout would not change his position on the conflict. He said he would take the same decision again if faced with similar circumstances, arguing that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
Trump identified energy costs as a major issue affecting voter sentiment. He referred to disruptions in oil shipments through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz during the early stages of the conflict.
According to the president, oil flows through the waterway have since improved, potentially easing some pressure on energy supplies.
He suggested that higher fuel prices, rather than opposition to the military campaign alone, were a significant reason behind voter dissatisfaction.
The president also argued that his personal popularity had not translated into electoral support for Republican candidates.
He claimed that his campaign rallies attracted large crowds but acknowledged that the enthusiasm surrounding his appearances did not produce similar momentum for other party candidates.
Trump maintained that Republicans could have performed better had he personally contested the election.
Earlier, Vance took to X with a statement stating that the Iran conflict responsible for the Republican Party's poor showing in the midterm elections
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He identified four major concerns among voters: addressing inflation and living costs, ending the conflict, restoring the America First agenda and reconsidering Washington's relationship with Israel.
Vance urged Republicans to examine these concerns instead of blaming voter turnout.
Trump, meanwhile, indicated that he could work with Democrats on certain issues but warned that he would veto legislation he opposed. He also dismissed the prospect of impeachment, arguing that such an initiative would politically damage Democrats.
The president's remarks highlight the growing debate within Republican ranks over the political and economic consequences of the Iran conflict.
