US President Donald Trump has congratulated the Democratic Party following its impressive performance in the November 3 midterm elections, but has rejected suggestions that the outcome represents a loss of confidence in his leadership.

Speaking during a telephone interview with Fox News, Trump acknowledged the Democrats’ achievement, saying they had worked towards the victory for 11 years before finally securing it.

He, however, maintained that the election results should not be interpreted as a setback for his presidency, insisting that his administration had recorded remarkable achievements over the past two years.

Trump described the period as the most successful two years in the history of the American presidency, despite the electoral losses suffered by his party.

The Democrats recorded major victories in the midterm elections, taking control of the US Senate and making significant gains in the House of Representatives. The outcome represents a major political blow to Trump and the Republican Party.

The election campaign was largely shaped by public concerns over the state of the economy, rising fuel prices and the Trump administration’s handling of the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Despite the disappointing results for Republicans, Trump argued that his absence from the ballot was an important factor, claiming the party would have achieved a much bigger victory if he had personally contested.

He also blamed some of the Republican setbacks on rising fuel costs associated with the conflict involving Iran.

While distancing himself from responsibility for the party’s poor performance, Trump congratulated the Democrats and indicated his readiness to work with them following their electoral gains.