Republicans win majority in US Senate - CBS News
Photo: Republicans won majorities in both Houses of Congress (Getty Images)
In the 2024 election, the Republican Party gained control of the US Senate. Victories in several key races solidified the new majority and shifted control of the upper chamber of Congress, according to CBS News.
Republican wins in West Virginia, Montana, and Ohio gave the party a majority of 52 seats in the Senate. The races became surprisingly competitive in the final stretch of the campaign in Nebraska, which propelled the Republican Party to victory.
Photo: Republicans win majorities in both Houses of Congress
CBS News noted that Democrats currently hold a 51-49 majority in the Senate. However, Senator Joe Manchin's decision to leave Congress nearly guaranteed a Republican triumph in deep-red West Virginia, as well as opportunities for Republicans to secure victories in other states, creating difficulties for Democrats.
Meanwhile, Democrats focused their efforts on potential victories in Florida and Texas, which are expected to remain under Republican control. At the same time, Democrats worked to defend their most vulnerable seats in Congress.
The last time Republicans held a majority in the Senate was in 2018, after which Democrats secured a narrow majority in the past two elections.
Republicans’ victory was ensured by two factors: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced earlier this year his plans to step down from his position, and a win on Wednesday, November 13, in the leadership race by Republican John Thune of South Dakota.
“The Republican victory will have major implications for the new administration, bolstering the president's agenda,” CBS News writes.
Photo: Republicans win majorities in both Houses of Congress
US congressional election
On November 5, the United States held elections for president, as well as elections for the House of Representatives and the Senate.
According to preliminary results, Republican Donald Trump was elected the new president with a significant lead.
In the Congressional election, the Republican Party gained a majority in the House of Representatives, securing 218 seats. In the Senate, Republicans will hold at least 52 seats out of 100.
John Thune will become the new Republican leader in the Senate. He is a proponent of financial and military aid to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the Senate does not rule out approving additional funding for Ukraine's defense needs before Donald Trump takes office.
