A bad night for Donald Trump? Five key takeaways from the US midterms

Democrats appear to have surprised even themselves, though a Republican majority in the House seems likely

Supporters of Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, waves signs during an election night party in Pittsburgh, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022. Picture: AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar

As results in America’s crucial midterm elections continue to come in, an unexpectedly mixed picture has emerged.

Many observers across the political spectrum were expecting a surging Republican performance certain to take back the House and perhaps to capture the Senate. But instead Democrats have beaten expectations.