Donald Trump secures the White House in a dramatic comeback, winning key swing states and galvanizing voter anger to claim the presidency for a second term.
Sen. Ted Cruz's re-election in Texas defeated Democratic candidate Colin Allred in a fierce and expensive contest. Cruz's triumph helps the Republican Party's effective attempt to retake control of the Senate, which today boasts a 51-seat advantage following resounding GOP wins in Ohio and West Virginia.
Republicans made significant headway with a favorable Senate map, grabbing seats in states like Ohio and West Virginia, where the departure of departing Sen. Joe Manchin created an opening in the usually Republican-leaning state. The GOP kept control in several crucial states while Democrats tried establishing ground in brutal seats, including Texas and Florida.
This win marks a change from the limited Democratic majority maintained in past years and indicates fresh GOP agenda support. The Republican dominance of the Senate will support the legislative projects of the forthcoming government, therefore allowing a conservative change in policy.
As Mitch McConnell gets ready to retire, the power change also set up a Senate leadership fight. The top candidates to inherit as Senate Republican leader are Texas's own Sen. John Cornyn and Minority Whip John Thune.
