The US Democrats have taken control of the House of Representatives in the mid-term elections, dealing a blow to President Donald Trump, the BBC reports. 

Taking control of the lower chamber of Congress for the first time in eight years will enable Democrats to thwart the president's agenda.

But Mr Trump's Republicans are set to strengthen their grip on the Senate.

President Trump focused on the Senate, and praised himself by quoting a commentator.

“There’s only been 5 times in the last 105 years that an incumbent President has won seats in the Senate in the off year election. Mr. Trump has magic about him. This guy has magic coming out of his ears. He is an astonishing vote getter & campaigner. The Republicans are.........

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 7, 2018

The election confirms a historical trend for the party that is not in the White House to make gains in the mid-terms. House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi - who is set to become Speaker, a position she held from 2007 to 2011 - said told cheering supporters in Washington: "Thanks to you, tomorrow will be a new day in America."