DID Press: Democrats’ victory in both chambers of the US Congress has strengthened the opposition’s oversight powers over President Donald Trump and could affect Washington’s relations with India and Pakistan. The shift is expected to give New Delhi greater room in trade negotiations, while making Islamabad’s economic agreements with companies linked to Trump’s associates more sensitive.
According to the Indian media outlet India Today, the loss of Republican majorities in the House of Representatives and the Senate weakens Trump’s political position during the final two years of his presidency and creates opportunities for greater congressional scrutiny of his administration’s decisions.
The report says India and Pakistan are likely to be affected differently by the political shift. New Delhi hopes Trump’s weakened position will create more room for negotiations on a trade agreement, customs tariffs and immigration restrictions. The H-1B skilled-worker visa programme is a particular concern for the Indian government, as Indian nationals account for about three-quarters of approved H-1B visas.
However, the Democrats’ victory does not mean an end to US trade and immigration pressure, as the president retains extensive executive powers in these areas. In addition, Democratic criticism of human rights conditions and religious freedoms in India could become more prominent in bilateral relations.
Pakistan, meanwhile, could face increased congressional scrutiny of its economic and trade agreements with companies linked to Trump’s family and close associates.
These include a memorandum of understanding with cryptocurrency firm World Liberty Financial, an agreement to purchase unmanned aerial systems from Powerus, and a $500 million deal with US Strategic Metals for cooperation in the critical minerals sector.
The agreement concerning the redevelopment of New York’s Roosevelt Hotel, owned by Pakistan’s national airline, is another issue that India Today says could attract Democratic scrutiny as part of broader inquiries into Trump’s business ties and those of his associates.
The Indian outlet reported that Islamabad’s recent rapprochement with the Trump administration has been based partly on personal relationships and economic cooperation with the president’s inner circle. Increased congressional oversight could therefore create sensitivities for Pakistan.
Nevertheless, a change in congressional control does not necessarily mean an end to US security and defence cooperation with Pakistan or a fundamental shift in Washington’s South Asia policy.
Reuters has also reported that Trump’s weakened domestic political position could give India greater room to resist US trade pressure, although the possibility of Washington continuing or intensifying unilateral measures remains.