Democrats face challenges after midterms as Trump makes White House staff change

CBS News reported on the November 8, 2026 edition of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" that the recent midterm elections resulted in a significant setback for Republicans, with Democrats gaining a healthy majority on Capitol Hill but falling short of a veto-proof margin.

Democratic leaders emphasized priorities such as lowering costs, raising wages, ending corruption, expanding healthcare and childcare access, and saving Social Security. However, the challenge remains for Democrats to deliver on these promises amid a divided government.

President Trump responded to the election outcomes by making a major staff change at the White House, appointing Stephen Miller as his new chief of staff following the departure of Susie Wiles. The change has sparked debate within Republican ranks about Miller's impact and approach.

Calley Means, a former senior adviser to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., publicly accused White House aides, including Wiles, of prioritizing special interests over the administration's agenda, which some see as contributing to the Republican losses in the midterms.

Republican Congressman French Hill acknowledged the difficult election cycle and pointed to ongoing concerns among Americans about inflation and living costs as key issues. He also supported President Trump's decision to promote Miller, emphasizing the president's authority to make staffing choices.

The program included discussions on the potential for bipartisan cooperation on banking and financial legislation, featuring interviews with Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren and Republican Congressman French Hill.

Looking ahead, the focus remains on whether the two branches of government can work together effectively to address voter concerns about high prices and other pressing issues.