The Democrats are preparing investigations into decisions taken by the administration of Donald Trump during the first two years of his second term, following their sweeping victory in the US midterm elections. The focus will include Elon Musk, restrictions on the Starshield satellite system in Ukraine, and the deal involving Russian diesel.

According to a Democratic Senate aide who spoke to CNN, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee has already sent letters to private companies and government agencies, asking them to preserve documents and records that may be needed for the investigations once the party takes control of Congress in January 2027.

Musk and Russian diesel under scrutiny

A letter has been sent to Elon Musk concerning restrictions on the operation of Starshield in Ukraine, while similar requests have been received by ports, banks and private companies involved in the deal concerning Russian diesel.

The same source clarified that this is a standard parliamentary procedure requiring individuals or organisations whose activities are due to be examined to preserve relevant records. The sending of such letters does not imply a finding of unlawful conduct.

Preparations for the investigations are under way alongside a change in leadership at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen is stepping down following her retirement and, according to CNN sources, Chris Coons is expected to take over as the committee’s chairman.

What about Iran and Trump’s appointments?

Until January, Republicans retain their majority in Congress and are expected to seek confirmation of as many government appointments as possible, including ambassadorial nominations.

The situation is set to change in the new Congress, however, with the administration potentially withdrawing nominations that are unlikely to secure approval from the Democratic majority.

Meanwhile, no significant amendments are expected to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the main text of which has largely been agreed.

A serious development in the war with Iran could nevertheless prompt Democrats to demand new provisions as a condition of their support. The current Republican majority, however, is considered unlikely to accept restrictions on Trump’s powers.

‘Trump has caused enormous damage’

Democratic Senator Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland launched a sharp attack on the US president, arguing that reversing the consequences of his administration would take time.

“We have a responsibility. I have never suggested that we don’t have work to do,” she told CNN, adding that Democrats would do everything they could to honour their campaign pledges.

“We are determined, but it is important to recognise what we are inheriting from the Republicans, who had the House, the Senate and the White House,” she said.

Alsobrooks accused Trump of having “behaved in a very immature way”, arguing that “he has destroyed everything around him and created very little”.

“He has damaged everything, from our reputation to our economy. He has caused enormous damage,” she concluded.