Republicans poised to control Senate amid election tightrope
Republicans are set to take control of the Senate, according to the Associated Press, based on current outcomes in the Senate races in Ohio, West Virginia, Texas, and Nebraska. However, it's still uncertain how large the Republican majority will be in the Senate or if they will maintain their majority in the House of Representatives.
6 November 2024 07:46
The Republican takeover in the Senate was confirmed when Bernie Moreno defeated the long-serving Sherrod Brown, who had held his seat for 18 years, in Ohio. This marks the second seat captured by Republicans after Jim Justice's predicted win in West Virginia, taking over from Joe Manchin.
Although the Republican lead in the Senate might increase, the elections in Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, and Wisconsin remain unresolved, with Democrats striving to hold their positions. In Arizona, Ruben Gallego of the Democratic Party holds a significant lead.
Return to power in the Senate?
Forecasts had predicted a possible Republican return to power in the Senate, noting that Democrats were defending more seats in these elections. The elections occur across various states and, like every two years, involve only one-third of the Senate. A Republican triumph may influence the future of the Supreme Court, especially if Donald Trump becomes president again.
The situation is even more complex in the House of Representatives, where Republicans are trying to maintain a slim four-seat majority. So far, they have secured 177 seats, while Democrats have won 144.
Many tightly contested races remain unresolved, with most outcomes contradicting the favourites' predictions. The outcome for the House of Representatives remains open.