In state-level races, Democrats defied expectations, but Republican incumbents held their ground. On the whole, red states continue to grow redder, and blue ones bluer.
Back in the primary season, a number of Democrats tried to boost far-right Republican candidates whom they deemed easier to beat in November. The strategy seems to have paid off.
Kotek, a former state House speaker, beat out Republican Christine Drazan, a former state lawmaker. The race was uncomfortably close for Democrats who've held the governor's mansion for four decades.
As the dust settles after the midterms, NPR takes a look at what the results mean for President Biden's policies, the way his White House runs and his decision about whether to run again in 2024.
NPR's Elissa Nadworny talks with Tampa Bay Times Political Editor Emily Mahoney about how Florida, the nation's one-time biggest swing state, has turned redder this midterm season.