Donald Trump blames Fox News as Republicans face midterm losses

US President Donald Trump blamed Fox News for Republican losses during a live broadcast as Democratic midterm victories were declared on November 4, 2026. Axios, CNN, and the Washington Post all reported that the president directed his anger at the cable network while Democrats made significant gains in the elections. The Daily Mail and the Irish Star reported that Trump clashed with Fox News anchor Bret Baier shortly after midnight Eastern Time as Republican defeats mounted. [1][2][4][6][10]

During the live exchange, Baier challenged Trump after the president criticized the network's polling, according to the Daily Mail. Asked about his endorsement of Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton and South Carolina nominee Darline Graham following their election losses, Trump said he had no choice but to back Paxton. Trump then stated that the network's polls were terrible and suggested Baier get a better pollster. Baier immediately intervened to correct the president on air. [1][10]

The Independent reported that Trump acknowledged the Democratic sweep while calling into the network. Additionally, the Mirror US reported that Fox News called the state of Minnesota for Democrats during the live interview with the president. The Telegraph and the Guardian both reported that Trump blamed the news outlet for Republican election losses even as its hosts largely avoided criticizing him. [3][5][8][11]

Baier serves as the chief political anchor for Fox News and hosts Special Report with Bret Baier, having previously worked as the network's chief White House correspondent. Fox News is a New York-based political commentary and news television network owned by Fox Corporation. As FTMQ News reported earlier, Trump had previously posted critical messages on social media targeting Fox News exit poll results during the midterm campaign. [12][13][17]

According to the News International, Trump outlined his strategy following the midterms, promising to use his veto power to block legislative measures if Democrats assume control of Congress. [9]