Following the 2026 midterm elections, Democratic leaders are preparing to address a range of foreign policy challenges as they look toward the 2028 presidential race. The party secured a majority in both chambers of Congress, positioning them to influence policy on international conflicts and trade. Thomas Wright, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, stated that while Democrats largely agree in their opposition to current administration actions, the party faces internal debates over its future strategy.
The shift in congressional power follows a period marked by international actions by the Trump administration. These include the initiation of a war with Iran, the implementation of a full-scale trade war, the snatching of a leader in Venezuela, and a proposal to acquire Greenland. Wright noted that these actions had domestic consequences, particularly regarding the cost of living and the economy, which influenced voter behavior in the midterms.
Internal divisions within the Democratic party are most prominent regarding relations with Israel and China. Progressives have called for more sustained pressure on Israel, while the broader party considers its approach amid a potential transition in Israeli leadership. Regarding China, the party is debating whether to return to the "managed competition" approach of the Biden administration or to maintain the current administration’s shift away from strategic competition, which some progressives have described as providing "breathing room."
For the American public, these policy shifts may be visible in the costs of goods and fuel. If the new Congress chooses to alter military funding or trade regulations, households could see changes in their expenses and purchasing power. The Democratic majority will face decisions on whether to appropriate additional funding for Ukraine, a move Wright expects will have broad support across the party's factions. These legislative actions are expected to take place as the new Congress convenes in January.
The long-term impact involves the party's approach to international competition and alliance management. The debate over the next 18 months of the primary campaign will determine the party's foreign policy case. A key challenge remains the lack of clear exit strategies for the conflict in Iran, which Wright described as having no "good options" currently. The outcome of these internal debates will shape the platform presented to voters in the 2028 general election, focusing on whether to restore prior diplomatic norms or adopt new strategic frameworks.
What happens next: The new Congress will take office in January 2027, where members are expected to hold votes on military funding and aid for Ukraine. Over the next 18 months, Democratic primary candidates will debate the party’s foreign policy case. Specific timelines for resolving the Iran conflict or trade disputes remain unknown, as they depend on ongoing administration actions and international responses.