Democrats have won the House, gaining committee subpoena power and the ability to challenge President Trump’s priorities. NBC News estimates they will hold about 248 seats, though counting continues.
News Mash
Rob Sand defeats Zach Lahn to become the first Democrat elected Iowa governor since 2006. The state auditor campaigned on affordability and cross-party cooperation in a state Trump won by more than 13 points in 2024.
Democrat Josh Turek defeated Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson for Iowa’s open U.S. Senate seat, ending more than a decade in which Republicans held both of the state’s seats. The pickup brings Democrats one step closer to Senate control.
Democrat David Crowley defeated Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany to become Wisconsin’s first Black governor. His victory keeps the office under Democratic control after a close primary and a general election in which Tiffany held a major spending advantage.
Democrat Amy Acton defeated Trump-backed Vivek Ramaswamy to become the first woman elected Ohio governor. She will take office in January with a Republican-controlled legislature.
Democrat James Talarico defeats Republican Ken Paxton in Texas’ U.S. Senate race, ending a three-decade Republican hold on statewide office. The closely watched contest drew heavy spending and attention from President Donald Trump.
Democrat Xavier Becerra wins California’s governor’s race, defeating Republican Steve Hilton. The candidates offered competing plans on taxes, housing, immigration and homelessness.
Annie Andrews defeats Republican Sen. Darline Graham, becoming South Carolina’s first elected Democratic senator since 1998 and its first woman elected to the Senate.