Trump points to government shutdown and his absence as key reasons for GOP defeat

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday, November 4, to share his perspective on the recent election results. He reflected on why Republicans fell short in several major races across the country.

According to Trump, pollsters pointed to two main reasons behind the GOP’s losses: “Trump” and “shutdown.” He said these factors were particularly relevant in the New York City mayoral race.

In the high-profile New York City election, Zohran Mamdani secured a decisive victory. He defeated Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa as well as former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Donald Trump gives reason for GOP defeat 

Trump’s comment came after Democrats swept all major races in the first nationwide elections since he left the presidency. He wrote, "TRUMP WASN’T ON THE BALLOT, AND SHUTDOWN, WERE THE TWO REASONS THAT REPUBLICANS LOST ELECTIONS TONIGHT,” citing pollsters. The post drew 1.48 percent reshares, 2.66 thousand comments, and 5.08 percent reactions.

According to the Daily Mail, the Board of Elections reported a record-breaking 2 million votes in the New York City mayoral race, the highest turnout since 1969.

Democrats sweep major races coast to coast

Democrats scored major wins in the November 2025 elections, giving their party momentum ahead of next year’s midterms. In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. In New Jersey, Representative Mikie Sherrill defeated Trump-backed Republican Jack Ciattarelli, reclaiming the governor’s seat for the Democrats.

In New York City, Zohran Mamdani won the mayoral race, surpassing former Governor Andrew Cuomo. In California, voters approved Governor Gavin Newsom’s plan to redraw congressional districts, potentially creating five new Democratic seats, according to USA Today.

Ghazala Hashmi won the lieutenant governor race in Virginia, defeating Republican John Reid. Mikie Sherrill secured the New Jersey gubernatorial election with 56.5 percent of the vote.

The New York City mayoral race drew nationwide attention, and even President Trump commented on the outcome. Mamdani received 573,169 votes in the final round, compared with Cuomo’s 443,229, according to the NYC Board of Elections.