In a crucial victory for the United States Democratic Party, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto secured re-election in Nevada, ensuring the Democrats retain control of the federal Senate. With Democrats currently holding 50 Senate seats to Republicans’ 49, Vice President Kamala Harris breaks tie votes.
Cortez Masto triumphed over Republican opponent Adam Laxalt, the former Nevada attorney general, in a closely watched race.
President Joe Biden, attending an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders’ summit in Cambodia, expressed satisfaction with the election outcome, attributing it to the quality of Democratic candidates.
The Senate landscape still awaits the results of a special election in Georgia on December 6, where Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock faces Republican challenger Herschel Walker. Biden emphasized the importance of securing 51 seats to avoid balanced committees.
Control of the House of Representatives hangs in the balance with several tight races, particularly in the western U.S. region. Biden expressed optimism about the potential outcomes but acknowledged the uncertainty.
Notably, Nevada and Arizona experienced delays in vote counting due to a high volume of mail-in ballots requiring signature verification against registration lists. In Arizona, contests for governor and three House seats remain undecided.
While Republicans lead in House seats won, they have yet to reach an overall majority. As of the latest count, Republicans have secured 211 seats, nearing the 218 needed for a majority. Democrats have clinched 204 seats, leaving 20 races pending.
California’s numerous contested districts are still awaiting results, with the outcome crucial in determining the future balance of power. A Republican-controlled House could impede President Biden’s agenda and initiate investigations into his administration.