In a late-night vote count on nov 11th Ruben Gallego secured his position as Arizonas next Senator beating out GOP candidate Kari Lake (a well-known ex-tv anchor and strong Trump supporter) in the states final election showdown
The race – which fills the seat of departing Senator Kyrsten Sinema – wrapped up with more than 94% of ballots processed showing Gallegos clear advantage. This contest marked the last undecided Senate position nationwide; its conclusion sets up the chambers new make-up
The final tally completes the picture for Senate control: Republicans now hold a 53-47 edge which means theyʼll have a solid grip on the upper house of Congress. The Arizona contest drew nation-wide attention as both parties fought hard in this key south-western battleground state where Trump previously found success
The race highlighted the states changing political landscape with Gallego – a seasoned congressman – facing off against Lake who built her campaign on media experience and alignment with Trumps policies. Early voting numbers and mail-in ballots played a big role in determining the outcomes timing