Midterm elections: Republicans take control of the US House

The result means a split of US Congress, as the Democrats maintain control of the Senate. But they are on course for their narrowest majority of the 21st century.

The Republican Party have won a majority of seats in the US House of Representatives, after results from crucial midterm elections were tallied on Thursday.

The final call from the Associated Press came after more than a week of ballot counting, with Republicans securing the 218th seat required to gain control of the House.

The result returns the conservative party to power in Washington, allowing them to resist Biden's agenda and start a flurry of investigations. President Joe Biden's Democrats will now be relegated to the minority in the lower chamber of US Congress.

Republicans 'flipped the People's House' — Kevin McCarthy

The House will now have to determine who will serve as the speaker. California Republican Kevin McCarthy has the backing of a majority of his caucus to run for the powerful position to succeed Nancy Pelosi., but underwhelming party performance may dampen his party's ability to rule.

McCarthy welcomed news of the result and tweeted: "Republicans have officially flipped the People's House! Americans are ready for a new direction, and House Republicans are ready to deliver." 

Biden congratulates McCarthy on Republican win

US President Joe Biden said in a statement issued by the White House, that "last weeks elections demonstrated the strength and resilience of American democracy," and added that "There was a strong rejection of election deniers, political violence, and intimidation."

"I congratulate Leader McCarthy on Republicans winning the House majority, and am ready to work with House Republicans to deliver results for working families," Biden said after news of the Republican victory became known.

"I will work with anyone — Republican or Democrat — willing to work with me to deliver results for the American people," Biden added.

The news comes a day after former President Donald Trump announced he would make a new run for the White House in 2024.

Source: kb, wd/aw (AP, Reuters, AFP)