Former President Barack Obama spent Saturday doing the thing former presidents do when they want to make a point: campaigning. He stumped for Democrats in Cleveland and Detroit, framing the Nov. 3 midterms as a check on President Donald Trump with control of Congress on the line.

Midterms Could Reshape Washington Policy

Obama called the vote a "circuit breaker" to "bring some accountability to this government." The outcome could shape fiscal, trade and regulatory policy. In Michigan, he backed Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed, who faces Republican Mike Rogers, a former U.S. representative.

Obama Says Iran Gained Leverage Over Strait of Hormuz

During his address, Obama disputed the administration's claims of victory against Iran. He argued the war has given Tehran more economic leverage by allowing it to threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

"Iran now has veto power over the Strait of Hormuz, where oil goes through to get to the world," Obama said.

The strait is a key route for global crude.

Obama also accused Trump of corruption, saying he had "never seen a president so intent on selling favors."

The midterms are challenging for Republicans looking to defend their majorities, and for Democrats who intend to flip control of a closely divided Congress.