Donald Trump directed a barrage of criticism at Fox News on election night, expressing anger over the network's exit poll questions and the commentary of anchor Jessica Tarlov. As polls closed in the 2026 midterm elections, Trump took to his Truth Social account to call the network's questions "BULLS***" and "a hit job."
One specific poll cited by Trump indicated that 87 percent of respondents were concerned about gas prices, with 62 percent attributing the issue to his policies. The poll also showed Trump's approval rating at 38 percent, a figure consistent with other major networks' polling.
Trump specifically targeted Jessica Tarlov, a liberal co-host on Fox News' "The Five," calling her "DUMB AS A ROCK" and stating he would "go somewhere else until that LOSER is off the air." He later texted co-host Greg Gutfeld live during the broadcast, with Gutfeld reading the message. In it, Trump defended his record on gas prices, inflation, and the Iran nuclear program, asserting that prices were falling and inflation was at 1.7 percent.
Meanwhile, reports indicated that Trump also contacted CBS News, stating he was "prepared to use 'tremendous powers' if Democrats take control" of Congress. The midterms saw control of both the House and Senate hanging in the balance, with Democrats needing to flip a small number of seats in each chamber to achieve a majority.
Major issues on voters' minds, according to the Daily Mail's reporting, included the cost of living, gas prices, and the war in Iran. Trump had undertaken an extensive campaigning schedule in the preceding month, holding numerous rallies in an effort to mobilize the Republican vote. However, some analysts suggested his rhetoric might be alienating independent voters, potentially creating a "red undertow."
Should Democrats secure control of both the House and Senate, Trump could face significant legislative obstruction and congressional investigations during his final two years in office. The election results would determine whether Republicans maintained their slim majority in the House and their control of the Senate, where a narrow lead was particularly crucial for investigations and policy advancement.