Former US President Barack Obama has urged Democrats to act on their election gains, calling on the party to “roll up our sleeves” and push for change wherever they hold power.

In a post on X after projections showed Democrats on course to take control of both the Senate and House of Representatives, Obama said the party must work to prevent further damage and deliver on voters’ expectations.

“Tonight, the American people sent a clear message–they want a politics that brings people together rather than divides them, and leaders who offer concrete solutions to the challenges they face,” Obama said.

During the final week of campaigning, Obama had joined several Democratic candidates on the campaign trail, using his speeches to criticise President Donald Trump and his administration.

He had frequently warned voters about the direction of the country under Trump, making a series of campaign appearances to rally support for Democratic candidates ahead of Tuesday’s elections.