GOP keeps Senate control as Democrats fall short
WASHINGTON — Republicans held onto their slim Senate majority, a stinging blow to Democrats in a night full of them. Democrats had been nearly certain of retaking control but saw their hopes fizzle as endangered GOP incumbents won in Missouri, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and even Democrat-friendly Wisconsin.
Republicans also held onto a GOP seat in Indiana. GOP-held New Hampshire remained too close to call on Wednesday morning, but even if Democrats eked out a win there it would not make a difference.
New Hampshire Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan declared victory in the Senate race Wednesday morning, but incumbent GOP Sen. Kelly Ayotte refused to concede defeat. Hassan was fewer than 700 votes ahead in unofficial results.
Republicans started the night with a 54-46 majority in the Senate and were on track to end up with at least 52 seats, presuming they win a December runoff in Louisiana, as expected.