Trump Makes Acceptance of Midterm Results Conditional

President Donald Trump said October 27 that he would respect the results of the November 3 midterm elections only if they were honest, leaving the standard for judging the vote undefined as legal disputes over ballots and election certification continue. Asked whether he would accept the outcome regardless of which party won, Trump told reporters, “I will, if they’re honest elections.” He did not explain what he would consider an honest election. The statement makes his acceptance conditional, but does not establish that he plans to challenge results or take action against their certification. Trump also said he would seek a way to work with Democrats if they gained control of Congress. He pointed to his veto power and the possibility of political deals, while saying he hoped Republicans would retain control. Republicans currently hold both chambers, and Democrats are seeking to win the House and compete for the Senate. The remarks came as the Justice Department pursues election-related lawsuits in California and Alaska. In California, the department seeks to prevent the counting of about 20,000 ballots it says may involve noncitizens, arguing that state officials should...