White House prepares executive options if Democrats win Congress

The White House has spent months preparing options for President Donald Trump to pursue his agenda through executive action if Democrats win control of Congress in the November 3 midterm elections, while also preparing for congressional investigations, according to administration officials and people familiar with the plans. Senior aides, including deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller and budget director Russell Vought, have worked with the White House Counsel’s Office since April to identify measures Trump could take without congressional approval. A White House official said Trump has been briefed and has participated in discussions. The reported plans remain under review; the election outcome and any eventual actions are not yet established. Options under consideration include tariffs on imports of wind turbines and critical minerals, tighter visa rules for international students and temporary foreign workers, and measures intended to reduce housing and construction costs, the official said. Federal agencies have submitted proposals and legal reviews, according to people familiar with the process. Vought is examining whether previously appropriated funds could be used to...