Trump Offers Democrats Talks on Immigration and Tax After Midterm Losses

Washington: US President Donald Trump has said he is ready to work with Democrats on immigration, tax and economic growth after the Republican Party’s losses in the 3 November midterm elections. He spoke to reporters on Friday evening in Florida.

Trump said work could be done together on immigration, tax cuts or measures to simplify the tax system, and on several economic growth projects. However, he did not set out any concrete legislative proposal or a timeline for negotiations.

He said newly elected members had shown interest in working with the administration on issues affecting their states. He mentioned Texas and South Carolina but did not name any official and did not announce any meeting.

The president acknowledged that election night had been difficult for Republicans. He blamed the result on congressional inaction and rising global oil prices, and said he himself had not been on the ballot.

Trump accused Democrats of voting as a bloc and some Republicans of holding up legislation. He urged Senate Republican leader John Thune to speed up the work, and also referred to the confirmation of judges and executive nominees.

The new Congress will begin its work in January. Until then, the outgoing Congress can take action on pending legislation and nominations.

At the same briefing, Trump announced that Stephen Miller will be the new White House chief of staff. He praised Miller’s dedication and rejected the suggestion that the change was a result of the administration’s displeasure after the elections.