President Donald Trump suggested Wednesday that the ongoing government shutdown negatively impacted Republicans on election night. 

“Last night it was not expected to be a victory,” Trump said during a breakfast event with Republican Senators, adding that, “I don’t think it was good for Republicans.” 

“I don’t think it was good — I’m not sure it was good for anybody. But we had an interesting evening and we learned a lot,” the president continued. 

“Exactly one year ago we had that big, beautiful victory,” Trump also said. “But I thought we’d have a discussion after the press leaves about what last night represented and what we should do about it. And also about the shutdown and how that relates to last night,” Trump added. 

“I think if you read the pollsters, the shutdown was a big factor. Negative for the Republicans, and that was a big factor,” the president also said. “And they say that I wasn’t on the ballot was the biggest factor. But I don’t know about that. But I was honored that they said that.”  

Youngkin believes government shutdown had ‘major impact’ on election results in Virginia

Outgoing Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin said Wednesday morning that he believes the government shutdown had a “major impact” on voting in his state Tuesday after Democrat Abigail Spanberger emerged victorious in the governor’s race. 

“There are going to be, pundit after pundit after pundit who will unpick the results in Virginia and New Jersey and New York and have lots of theories. I, as a governor, will today do exactly what I knew I would be doing today regardless of the outcome, and that is preparing to finish strong and hand the next governor, the best possible Virginia that I can hand her,” Youngkin said. 

“And therefore, that’s what we’re focused on. I do think that the government shutdown is a big challenge. It is a big, big challenge. I have been vocal about it. I think that we have 330,000 federal workers in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and to have this shutdown extending as the longest shutdown ever, has been extraordinary, extraordinary for so many Virginians,” he continued. 

“People are going without paychecks. They’re worried about mortgages and rents. They’re worried about how they’re going to feed their families. That the challenge of this government shutdown is real. And I am incredibly understanding of that challenge for all Virginians. And I think it caused quite a turnout yesterday,” Youngkin added. 

The Republican called on senators to vote to reopen the government, saying that,” this has been an incredibly disruptive time for Virginians to see the government now shut for over a month, to see our military worry about whether they’re going to get paid, our air traffic controllers and TSA folks at the airports not getting paid.” 

“But again, we have 330,000 government workers in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and I can’t imagine how disruptive this has been for their families. And so I do believe that had a major impact on yesterday,” Youngkin said. 

Mamdani: New Yorkers have given me ‘mandate to pursue the most ambitious affordability agenda’

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani
said Wednesday that, “what New Yorkers across the five boroughs gave us last night was a mandate to pursue the most ambitious affordability agenda this city has seen since the days of Fiorello Laguardia.” 

During an appearance on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” the Democratic socialist was asked about proposals including free buses, childcare and rent freezes. 

“I think you can do that and I think you have to raise taxes on the top 1% of New Yorkers. New Yorkers who make more than a million dollars a year,” Mamdani said. “And then you also increase the corporate tax of New York State to match that of New Jersey, so that takes us from about 7.25 to about 11.5%, which is what we see in New Jersey. These things together raise about nine billion dollars which more than pays for our economic agenda but also starts to Trump-proof our city.” 

“What I’ve heard from a number of business leaders is that the affordability crisis is also affecting their ability to attract and retain talent. The city’s inability to provide childcare means that businesses often have to provide stipends for that childcare,” Mamdani also said. “Right now the absence of universal childcare means that a family will pay around $22,500 a year, which is more money than many of them would spend if they sent that same kid to college 18 years later, and it is time for city government to actually step up to the responsibility that it has.” 

DeSantis-backed Gonzalez, Democrat county commissioner Higgins head to runoff in Miami mayor race

Democratic County Commissioner Eileen Higgins and Republican candidate Emilio González, backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will advance to a Dec. 9 runoff
to determine Miami’s next mayor after no candidate received more than 50% of the vote.

The top two candidates emerged from a crowded field of 13 and will face off to succeed term-limited Republican Mayor Francis Suarez.

If no candidate receives 50% or more of the votes, the top two candidates must compete in a runoff in the race for mayor.

Higgins, the Miami-Dade County commissioner elected in 2018, represents parts of Miami Beach, Downtown, Brickell, Coral Way, Little Havana and West Flagler, according to the county’s website.

Miami Democrat Higgins is a former engineer, marketing executive and Peace Corps Belize country director, a position she accepted in 2006. She later worked as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. State Department. 

Gonzalez, the leading Republican contender, was endorsed by DeSantis and Florida Republican Sen. Rick Scott. He previously served as a bilingual surrogate for Trump’s presidential campaign, worked on the president’s transition team and was later named a senior fellow at the America First Policy Institute.

Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton contributed to this report.

FLASHBACK: Wildest moments Mamdani overcame on the campaign trail to become NYC’s next mayor

New York City socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani cruised to victory on Tuesday night, defying the laundry list of critics who railed against him over several high-profile controversial stances and statements.

Mamdani dismissed the “communist” label throughout the campaign, maintaining that he is a democratic socialist.

His past comments promoting the abolition of private property, seizing the means of production, claiming billionaires shouldn’t exist, and calling for free government programs earned him the communist label from some, including President Donald Trump. 

Days before the election, an antisemitism research institute also released a comprehensive report that summarized its concerns about Mamdani’s stances on Israel and concluded he shouldn’t become the next mayor of New York City.

Mamdani faced heated criticism on the campaign trail, including hundreds of rabbis signing a letter opposing him for positions dating back to his time in college co-founding his school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter all the way up to this year when he was hesitant to definitively condemn the term “globalize the intifada.”

Hillary Clinton celebrates Mamdani’s win, other Democrats’ election night victories

Former first lady, U.S. senator, Secretary of State, and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton hailed multiple Democratic election victories on Tuesday.

“Democratic women made history tonight: Abigail Spanberger will be the first female governor of Virginia. Mikie Sherrill will be the first female Democratic governor of New Jersey. I’m looking forward to seeing these strong, dedicated leaders deliver for their states,” Clinton wrote in one post, capping it off with the party popper emoji.

Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger defeated Virginia’s Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican, in the state’s gubernatorial contest.

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli in the Garden State.

In the Big Apple, Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, a New York state assemblymember who openly identifies himself on X as a “Democratic Socialist,” won the mayoral race, defeating former Empire State Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.

“More people voted in New York City’s election this year than they have in 50 years. That’s a win for democracy, and a testament to @ZohranKMamdani’s inspiring campaign. Congratulations to the next mayor of the greatest city in the world,” Clinton wrote in a post on X, adding the Statue of Liberty emoji.

House Republicans link Mayor-elect Mamdani to vulnerable congressional Democrats

FIRST ON FOX: The House GOP’s campaign arm is wasting no time in linking New York City’s democratic socialist mayor-elect to congressional Democrats facing challenging re-elections in next year’s midterm elections.

Hours after Zohran Mamdani’s election victory in New York City’s mayoral election, the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) on Wednesday launched a digital ad spotlighting him, which is running in nearly 50 competitive House districts.

“A radical left earthquake just hit America. The epicenter: New York,” says the narrator in the NRCC spot, which was shared first with Fox News Digital.

The narrator argues that “the new socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani built his movement on defunding the police and abolishing ICE. Now the socialists are celebrating. They call it progress. We call it chaos. Bureaucrats instead of doctors. Social workers instead of cops.”

“This is the future House Democrats want, and your city could be next. Stop socialism. Stop Democrats,” concludes the narrator, under pictures of Mamdani and House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York.

Fox News Poll: New Jersey governorship remains Democratic with Sherrill win

Democrat Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the New Jersey gubernatorial race,
powered by strong support from Black voters, women, and younger voters. Her victory secures Democrats a third straight term in the governor’s office — the first time that’s happened since 1961 — reflecting the state’s enduring blue tilt despite recent Republican gains.

Preliminary data from the Fox News Voter Poll, a survey of more than 4,400 registered New Jersey voters, showed Sherrill performed well with Black voters, voters under age 30, women, and college degree holders.

There was also a 20-point gender gap: about 6 in 10 women backed Sherrill while about 5 in 10 men favored Ciattarelli. Sherrill’s domination among women continued across all age groups, with her highest level of support coming from women under 30.

While Republicans have made gains among young men in recent elections, younger men in New Jersey sided with the Democrat this time.

The gender divide also extended to parents: moms broke for Sherrill nearly 2 to 1 while dads preferred Ciattarelli by a little over 10 points.

Sherrill’s multiracial coalition proved crucial to her win: she received support from over 9 in 10 Black voters and almost 7 in 10 Hispanic voters.

Republican Rep. Randy Fine on Mamdani’s mayoral victory: ‘New York City has fallen’

Republican Rep. Randy Fine of Florida reacted to Zohran Mamdani’s win in New York City’s mayoral race by asserting that the Big Apple had “fallen.”

“Legal immigrants who hate America elected a Communist Muslim Jihadist. New York City has fallen. America is next if we don’t stop it,” the congressman said in a post on X.

Mamdani, a Muslim who identifies himself as a “Democratic Socialist” on his X profile, has said that he is not a Communist.

Fine has called for stripping Mamdani’s American citizenship and deporting him.

“Mamdani is little more than a Muslim terrorist. It’s a disgrace he was ever granted citizenship. It should be stripped and he should be deported to the Ugandan s[—]hole he came from,” Fine asserted last month in a post on X.

Alex Soros congratulates Zohran Mamdani: ‘So proud to be a New Yorker!’

Alex Soros issued a post on X congratulating Zohran Mamdani on winning New York City’s mayoral race.

“So proud to be a New Yorker! The American dream continues! Congrats, Mayor @ZohranKMamdani,” Soros wrote in the post, which also features a photograph of the two men together.

Alex Soros, chair of the board of directors of the Open Society Foundations, which was founded by his father George Soros, voted for Mamdani in the Big Apple contest.

“I was proud to support and vote for the Democratic candidate for mayor,” he noted in an email to the New York Times.

Republican Rep. Andy Biggs reacts to Mamdani win by telling NYC, ‘You’ve made your bed’

GOP Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona, with apparent sarcasm, congratulated New York City for electing Empire State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in the Big Apple’s mayoral contest.

“Congratulations NYC. You just elected an official who despises America and everything our Republic stands for. You’ve made your bed,” Biggs wrote in a post on X.

Biggs made the comments when retweeting a more than five-year-old post Mamdani issued on June 23, 2020, the date of the Democratic primary for New York State Assembly District 36.

“We’ll have to wait to see if our lead holds. But to be leading even amidst a global pandemic makes it clear: another world really is possible. Together, we can tax the rich, heal the sick, house the poor, defund the police & build a socialist New York. Solidarity forever,” Mamdani wrote in the 2020 post.

MARK PENN: Democrats win the moment, but left-wing tilt threatens their future

Democrats roared back in the 2025 off-year elections, and that’s no surprise given widespread voter discontent with the economy and the political system in general. Democratic-leaning areas that flipped to Republicans in 2024 returned to the party this year.

Part of the lesson is that moderate female candidates do well with swing voters, and Democrats certainly had two strong contenders in Virginia Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger and New Jersey Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill. Both have military experience, and neither is anywhere close to being a member of the Democratic Socialists of America.

President Donald Trump was not on the ballot, but Republicans inherited a difficult situation from the Biden administration. Most voters believe the economy remains weak and that they are stuck in an inflationary spiral — one that may be lower than it was under Biden but still remains their top concern.

What’s interesting is that today’s inflation and affordability concerns stem from the excess spending of a Democratic administration. Yet New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a high-tax, big-spending candidate, claims he will solve the problem with more of the same policies, taken to the extreme.

It was massive spending on unnecessary “free” programs that caused the spike in prices — unlikely to be the cure — but Democrats don’t seem to be paying a price for it. Voters appear to believe that more government giveaways are the answer, losing sight of the fact that such policies created the very problems they now face.

New York City will embark on its socialist experiment, and the question is how that will turn out.

This is an excerpt from an opinion piece by Mark Penn.

Sen Chris Murphy says ‘shift in Connecticut tonight is seismic’ after Dems flipped several towns

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said on Tuesday the shift in the state is “seismic” and “possibly unprecedented” after Democrats
flipped several towns
from Republicans.

“The shift in Connecticut tonight is seismic. Possibly unprecedented. Loads of towns flipped from Republican to Democratic control,” Murphy wrote on X.

The senator also included a “partial list” of nearly 20 towns that flipped to the Democrats on Tuesday, including Branford, Bristol, Farmington, Milford and Stratford.

Menefee, Edwards head to Houston runoff that may narrow GOP majority

In a special election in Houston,
Democrats Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards are heading to a runoff for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, a race that could further narrow Republicans’ slim 219-212 majority in the U.S. House.

Neither candidate secured more than 50 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s 16-person field, The Associated Press reported.

The runoff, expected early next year, will decide who fills the seat left vacant after Rep. Sylvester Turner died two months into his term.

The special election could tighten Republicans’ already narrow majority in the House. The district, a longtime Democratic stronghold in Houston, has been at the center of redistricting controversy following efforts by former President Donald Trump and state Republicans to expand GOP representation.

Gov. Greg Abbott delayed the election until November, citing preparation needs. His move prompted Democrats to accuse him of stalling to benefit Republicans, according to the AP.

Menefee, Harris County’s first Black county attorney, and Edwards, a former city council member and U.S. Senate candidate, are locked in a race that could influence the balance of power in Congress.

Mamdani kicks Cuomo while he’s down, wishes Cuomo well in ‘private life’ during victory speech

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani kicked his opponent, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, while he was down during his acceptance speech Tuesday night.

While wishing the former governor well at the top of his victory address, Mamdani was sure to say “in private life,” earning laughter and uproar from his crowd of supporters at the Brooklyn venue they were gathered at.

“My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty,” the New York City mayor-elect said at the top of his victory address. “I wish Andrew Cuomo only the best in private life. But let tonight be the final time I utter his name. As we turn the page on a politics that abandons the many and answers only to the few.”

Mamdani and Cuomo battled a heated campaign against each other ahead of Tuesday night’s election, with Mamdani frequently criticizing Cuomo for being part of the old guard and Cuomo criticizing Mamdani for lacking experience.

California Dems celebrate passage of redistricting map aimed at offsetting Texas: ‘Free and fair’

The California Democratic Party on Tuesday touted the passage of Proposition 50, allowing the redrawing of the congressional map in the state to offset Texas Republicans’ efforts to redraw the map in the Lone Star State.

Prop 50, also known as the “Election Rigging Response Act,” was added to the ballot by the Democrat-controlled legislature.

“Tonight, California sent a message loud and clear: we will always stand up for free and fair elections and make sure that the voices of California’s voters are heard,” California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks said in a statement.

“When Republicans try to rig the rules to hold onto power, California Democrats organize, mobilize, and win,” Hicks added.

Greg Abbott’s ‘Moment of Silence’ for NYC Blends Mockery and Politics

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s viral X post offering “thoughts and prayers” to New York City after Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral win drew both criticism and praise.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, in a brief post on X, mock-mourned sympathy in an attempt to underscore his disapproval of Zohran Mamdani’s win in New York’s mayoral race.

The post offered “thoughts and prayers” for the city rather than for a person or tragedy, recasting New York City as a symbolic victim of its own politics.

“Join me for a moment of silence for NYC. Thoughts & prayers.”

The timing made the message read less like sympathy and more like sarcasm

.Abbott’s post fits a familiar pattern contrasting Texas’ conservatism with New York’s liberal politics. He framed New York City as a place in need of “prayers,” while mocking its political direction and reinforcing his own brand of Texas exceptionalism.

Some followers called the post tone-deaf, noting that a “moment of silence” is language usually reserved for tragedy, not elections. Supporters praised it as witty political commentary.

In the end, the post seemed to say everything — and nothing — about America’s deep red-blue divide.

‘We got our a**** handed to us’: Vivek lists ‘key lessons’ for GOP after electoral blowout

Following a night of Democratic electoral victories in New York City, Virginia, New Jersey, California and elsewhere, one-time GOP presidential candidate and DOGE chief
Vivek Ramaswamy
admitted, “We got our a**** handed to us.”

“We got our a**** handed to us in New Jersey, Virginia and New York City. Democrats swept all three,” said Ramaswamy, who is running for Ohio governor in 2026.

“There’s two key lessons for Republicans, listen carefully,” he went on.

“Our side needs to focus on affordability. Make the American dream affordable, bring down costs: electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we’re going to do it,” he said.”

Number two, cut out the identity politics, it doesn’t suit Republicans, it’s not for us, that’s the woke left’s game, not ours,” Ramaswamy went on.”We don’t care about the color of your skin or your religion. We care about the content of your character, that’s who we are,” he said.

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News Digital’s Peter Pinedo. 

Newsom celebrates Prop 50 win, calls gerrymander overhaul a ‘roar’ against Trump’s America

Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom
took to the podium on Tuesday evening, following several Democratic victories across the country — and the success of California’s proposition 50.

Proposition 50 would temporarily amend the California constitution to allow the adoption of new gerrymandered districts, eliminating as many as five Republican-held seats. Newsom framed the adoption of the measure as a rebuke of similar redistricting efforts in Texas
— at President Donald Trump’s request.

“One thing [Trump] never counted on though was the state of California. Instead of agonizing over the state of our nation, we organized. People from all over the United States of America contributed their voices and their support for this initiative,” Newsom said.

“Tonight, after poking the bear, this bear roared.”

Newsom raised over $88 million through his Yes on 50 fundraising efforts in just under 90 days. With that turnout, Newsom framed his win as a clear rebuke of the Trump administration’s not just on redistricting but on topics like law enforcement, expansion of executive power and more.

 “No crowns, no thrones, no kings,” Newsom said.

Tom Steyer praises Californians for passing Prop 50

Tom Steyer, founder of NextGen America, released a statement Tuesday night after California voters passed Proposition 50.

Steyer called the measure’s passage both a rebuke of Donald Trump and a victory for democracy and working people. He credited Gov. Gavin Newsom for leading the effort, calling the win proof that Democrats can prevail when they stand up for ordinary Americans.

“California stuck it to Donald Trump. This is an enormous victory for our state, our country and our democracy. In fact, voters all across the country tonight sent a clear signal that when Democrats fight for working people and their interests, Democrats win,” Steyer said. “Governor Newsom deserves our gratitude for his vision to launch this effort and for his leadership to see it through to victory.”

Steyer also warned that the fight against Trump’s policies isn’t over. He accused the former president of harming Californians, pointing to rising health care costs and cuts to aid for families.

“But the fight is not over. Trump is still attacking California. In just the last week, he doubled the cost of health insurance and let poor children and families go hungry. The only thing a bully understands is strength, so we will have to continue to fight fire with fire,” he said.

Steyer’s statement also referenced polling from August showing support for Prop 50 at just over 50%. Following a surge of spending — including $12 million from his “Stick It to Trump” campaign — a CBS News poll showed 62% of likely voters supporting the measure.

The CBS poll found that Yes voters “overwhelmingly said they were supporting the effort because they opposed Trump,” a theme Steyer emphasized directly in his ads.

Steyer has long opposed Trump, going back to his “Need to Impeach” effort during Trump’s first term. He has also previously supported successful California ballot propositions, including measures to increase taxes on the wealthy that funded housing affordability, homelessness and mental illness.

Mamdani channels Socialist icons Debs and Nehru in victory speech after NYC Mayoral win

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani celebrated his election Tuesday night with a speech steeped in socialist theory, quoting Eugene Debs and Jawaharlal Nehru as touchstones for what he called a “new age” in the city’s politics.

“The sun may have set over our city this evening,” Mamdani told supporters, “but as Eugene Debs once said, I can see the dawn of a better day for humanity.”

Mamdani, the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair and Columbia professor Mahmood, was born and raised in Africa before moving to New York City in 1999.

“The working people of New York have been told by the wealthy and the well-connected that power does not belong in their hands,” he said. “Fingers bruised from lifting boxes on the warehouse floor, palms calloused from delivery bike handlebars, knuckles scarred with kitchen burns. These are not hands that have been allowed to hold power. And yet, over the last 12 months, you have dared to reach for something greater.”

Later in his remarks, Mamdani quoted Jawaharlal Nehru, the socialist founding prime minister of India, saying: “A moment comes, but rarely in history when we step out from the old to the new. When an age ends and when the soul of a nation long suppressed finds utterance.”

Mamdani added, “Tonight we have stepped out from the old into the new. So let us speak now with clarity and conviction that cannot be misunderstood about what this new age will deliver, and for whom.”

He promised sweeping action on housing, transit and childcare, pledging “the most ambitious agenda to tackle the cost of living crisis that this city has seen since the days of LaGuardia.”

Mamdani framed his victory as part of a generational shift toward socialist ideals.

“Together, we will usher in a generation of change, and if we embrace this brave new course, rather than fleeing from it, we can respond to oligarchy and authoritarianism with the strength it fears, not the appeasement it craves.”

He ended with a pointed message to President Trump: “So Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you. Turn the volume up.”

The socialist experiment comes to NYC: Mamdani’s vision for a more affordable city

There’s a new mayor in town.

New Yorkers elected 34-year-old Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday night to lead the nation’s largest city. Mamdani, a progressive upstart from Queens, has made affordability the cornerstone of his agenda.

Yet proposals like free buses, city-owned grocery stores and rent freezes have rattled Wall Street, drawing some of his fiercest critics. The clash underscores a widening divide between progressive visions for the city and the financial sector that has long powered it.

Read more about Mamdani’s economic agenda for New Yorkers here.

Minneapolis mayor’s race advances to ranked choice voting after no candidate reaches 50%

The Minneapolis mayor’s race will advance to ranked choice voting after none of the candidates received at least 50% of the vote in Tuesday’s election, the Associated Press reported Tuesday night.

Minneapolis Democratic
Mayor Jacob Frey led challenger Omar Fateh as the 15-candidate race moved to a second round of counting set for Wednesday after no candidate secured an outright majority.

The way ranked-choice voting works in Minneapolis, if no candidate has enough votes to win, candidates with the fewest votes are eliminated for the next round of counting, while second- and third-choice rankings are allocated to the surviving candidates. The process is repeated until one candidate has enough. Frey won after the second round in 2021.

Fateh made waves on the national political stage this year, drawing comparisons to Zohran Mamdani’s
mayoral campaign in New York City, after The Minnesota Star Tribune dubbed him the “Mamdani of Minneapolis.”

According to The Associated Press, every mayoral race in Minneapolis since 2013 has gone to at least a second round of ranked-choice voting. 

Frey ousted an incumbent in 2017 after six rounds of tabulation.

Fox News Digital’s Deirdre Heavey Associated Press contributed to this post.

Rep. Darrell Issa vows to ‘fight for California’ after Prop 50 redistricting measure passes

Following the passage of California’s Proposition 50, Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., issued a statement to Fox News condemning the measure and the campaign behind it.

“California is my home. And it’s worth fighting for,” Issa said.

“I know how many of my friends and constituents feel about tonight’s election results and the unprecedented purely partisan campaign that pitted neighbor against neighbor and divided the state as never before. It was difficult to watch as Gavin Newsom and Sacramento’s special interests set about shredding the state constitution, disenfranchising millions of Californians solely because of how they vote, and delivering what they know is an undeserved advantage to Democrats.”

“But here’s something Newsom and his cronies don’t know: It won’t work. The worst gerrymander in history has a fatal flaw. Voters get to pick their representatives. Not the other way around.”

“I’m not going anywhere. I’ll continue to represent the people of California — regardless of their party or where they live. I’m not quitting on California. And neither should anyone else.”

Issa’s remarks came after voters approved Proposition 50, which redraws California’s congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Fox News’ Bill Melugin contributed to this report.

Breaking NewsSchumer breaks silence on Mamdani, calls win ‘historic’

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer,
D-N.Y., congratulated Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday evening, calling his victory “historic.” He said he anticipated further collaboration with his fellow New Yorker.

Mamdani is the first Muslim Mayor of New York City and — at just 34-years old — will also be the city’s youngest leader in over a century.

“We have worked together on a number of vital issues — like delivering historic debt relief for taxi drivers. I look forward to building on that partnership to keep NYC strong, fair, more affordable & thriving,” Schumer said in a post to X.

Schumer’s congratulations, however, come on the heels of months where he refused to answer questions about his stance on Mamdani. Up until the election, Schumer maintained that he was having conversations with the Democratic nominee and providing few other details.

Although Schumer told the press he had voted on Tuesday, he declined to say for whom he had cast a ballot.

Despite Schumer’s hesitations, Mamdani secured the endorsements of other notable Democrats including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.

Trump says Republicans must ‘TERMINATE’ the filibuster after lackluster GOP performance Tuesday

President Donald Trump called for Republicans to “terminate” Congress’ filibuster rule after Democrats saw a long list of election victories Tuesday night.

The filibuster refers to the practice by which a minority of Senators can delay, or block, a vote on a bill by extending debate indefinitely. Under Congress’ current rules, 60 senators must vote in favor of invoking “cloture” in order to end debate so legislation can move forward. As a result, the filibuster often gives the minority party the ability to halt key legislation.

“REPUBLICANS, TERMINATE THE FILIBUSTER! GET BACK TO PASSING LEGISLATION AND VOTER REFORM!” the president wrote in all capital letters on his social media platform Truth Social
Tuesday night. “President DJT,” he signed the end of the post.

Trump recently called for implementing a “nuclear option” to reform the filibuster, which aims to reinterpret the Senate’s filibuster rules through a procedural move that only requires a simple majority to agree. Republicans, like Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., have supported the move.

Fox News Decision Desk: Prop. 50 projected to pass in California

It’s 11 o’clock eastern, and the last polls of the night have closed in California.

The Fox News Decision Desk can project that Golden State voters will pass Proposition 50.

The ballot measure allows the Democratic legislature to adopt more favorable congressional maps for the next three election cycles, stripping that power from an independent commission.

This is a victory for Governor Gavin Newsom, who led a campaign to pass the measure in response to Texas’ mid-decade redistricting.

Trump reacts to Democratic victories, suggests shutdown is to blame

President Donald Trump reacted on Truth Social to Tuesday’s off-year elections, in which Democrats swept major races in Virginia, New Jersey and New York City.

“‘TRUMP WASN’T ON THE BALLOT, AND SHUTDOWN, WERE THE TWO REASONS THAT REPUBLICANS LOST ELECTIONS TONIGHT,’ according to Pollsters,” Trump wrote.

It was not immediately clear if the pollsters were internal members of the Trump team or from somewhere else.

Elise Stefanik blames Gov. Kathy Hochul for ‘Commie Mamdani’ victory

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., blamed Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul for socialist Zohran Mamdani’s electoral victory on Tuesday night.

Stefanik, who is widely rumored to be planning a run for New York governor in 2026, said that “under Kathy Hochul
’s weak catastrophic leadership, New York City has now fallen to a pro-Hamas, Defund the Police, Tax Hiking, Antisemite Jihadist Communist.”

“Instead of standing up for hardworking New York families, Kathy Hochul proved once again that she is truly the Worst Governor in America with her desperate endorsement of Commie Mamdani,” said Stefanik.“

Kathy Hochul is now owned lock, stock, and barrel by the radical Far Left Socialist takeover of the New York Democrat Party under her abysmal watch.”

Hochul also commented on Mamdani’s victory, posting on X, “Just spoke to Mayor-Elect @ZohranKMamdani and told him I’m looking forward to working together to make our city more affordable and livable. Congratulations to him and to every New Yorker who made their voice heard in one of the city’s highest-turnout elections on record.” 

Bill Ackman congratulates Mamdani after Democratic Socialist’s NYC victory

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman congratulated New York City’s new mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, after his election-night victory Tuesday, softening his tone following weeks of warnings about the race’s trajectory.

“@ZohranKMamdani, congrats on the win,” Ackman wrote on X. “Now you have a big responsibility. If I can help NYC, just let me know what I can do.”

Ackman had publicly urged Republican Curtis Sliwa to drop out of the race to boost former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s independent bid, arguing Sliwa’s refusal gave Mamdani a near-certain path to victory.

“It was not Zohran Mamdani’s debate performance,” Ackman said last month. “It was Curtis Sliwa’s statement after the debate that he is not leaving that has tipped the odds to 90% for Mamdani.”

Sliwa pushed back, saying “billionaires aren’t going to decide the outcome.”

Mamdani, 34, a socialist state assemblyman from Queens backed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders, makes history as the city’s first Muslim mayor.

Democratic Socialists of America applaud Mamdani victory: ‘Defeated the Democratic Party status quo’

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)
released a lengthy statement following New York City’s Zohran Mamdani’s election victory Tuesday night.

During his campaign, Mamdani’s connections with the DSA were a focus for critics. The group claimed to have regular meetings with Mamdani’s campaign, with some of the group working as staff on Mamdani’s campaign while others were simply just volunteers During a July panel discussion titled “United Struggles: Resistance to Bodily Autonomy Restrictions,” DSA organizer Daniel Goulden admitted the organization had been intimately involved in Mamdani’s campaign, even helping to write portions of his platform.

Mamdani also has a history being deeply involved with the DSA, including being a keynote speaker at the group’s 2023 national convention and participating in the New York City DSA chapter as a state representative.

“Through Zohran’s victory, the people defeated the oligarchy; the working class defeated major corporations; Democratic Socialism defeated the Democratic Party status quo,” stated the DSA’s Tuesday night press release, put out following Mamdani’s victory. “Thousands of DSA members in NYC-DSA played critical roles in the campaign as staff and volunteers … Our movement won a decisive victory but the real battles are just beginning.”

The DSA said the group will continue supporting Democratic Socialist candidates
running for office across the country as it continues to “build” its political movement and “win the political revolution.”

DSA indicated they endorsed 18 candidates around the country this year running for local office. Meanwhile, the group claimed to have raised $100,000 in seven months after launching a national fundraising campaign titled “Socialist Cash Takes Out Capitalist Trash.”

Republican National Committee responds to election of ‘communist’ Mamdani

Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters responded to the election of socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York City mayor on Tuesday night, saying the election is “proof that the Democrat Party has abandoned common sense.”

“Democrats have officially handed New York City over to a self-proclaimed Communist, and hardworking families will be the ones paying the price,” said Gruters.“

Zohran Mamdani’s radical agenda will push businesses out, drain taxpayers dry, and drive one of America’s greatest cities into lawlessness,” he went on. “His election is proof that the Democrat Party has abandoned common sense and tied themselves to extremism.”

Despite a night of Democratic victories in New York City, Virginia and New Jersey, Gruters predicted that, “next year, Democrats will be held accountable by voters for embracing Mamdani’s far-left agenda and the consequences it will bring.”

Mamdani, an immigrant from Uganda, will become the first Muslim mayor of America’s largest city and its youngest in more than a century.

Voters under 30 overwhelmingly support Mamdani

Young voters were a key group who backed Zohran Mamdani in New York City and helped to propel him to victory.

Mamdani supporters celebrate loudly after race called in favor of socialist candidate

Supporters of newly elected New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani
gathering at the Brooklyn Paramount theatre erupted in praise after the race was officially called in favor of the self-described socialist.

After the race was called around 9:40 p.m., supporters could be seen jumping up and down and hugging each other at the Brooklyn venue where Mamdani will deliver his victory speech. One person could be seen waving a Mexican flag.

A DJ played 50 Cent’s “Many Men” in the background as the crowd cheered.

Mamdani beat out former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa during Tuesday night’s general election.

House Speaker Johnson slams Mamdani after NYC mayoral victory: ‘‘Can’t be America’s future’

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., blasted election results from New York City on Tuesday evening, calling the platform of Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani “dangerous.”

“Democrats in New York City have chosen a true extremist and Marxist, and the consequences will be felt across our entire nation. Zohran Mamdani’s election cements the Democrat Party’s transformation to a radical, big-government socialist party,” Johnson wrote in a post to X.

Notably, while the self-described democratic socialist attracted endorsements from figures like New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., he failed to secure the support of other key Democrats.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. evaded questions about his stance on Mamdani up until election night and — although he told audiences he had voted — declined to say for whom.

Despite apparent divisions on Mamdani, Johnson tied Mamdani’s rhetoric to the direction of the Democratic Party in Congress.

“Mayor-Elect Mamdani’s extreme agenda is the future of the Democrat Party, but we will never allow it to be the future of America,” Johnson said.

Ciattarelli concedes to Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey governor’s race

Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli called Democrat Mikie Sherrill to concede the race for the governor’s office on Tuesday night.

Ciattarelli said he hopes that Sherrill cane “fix New Jersey,” noting his belief that New Jersey residents can’t live or raise and educate their children in their state.

“I stand before you right now proud of all of you on behalf of this campaign,” he said. “And I’m proud of my effort. 564 towns. 21 counties. North, central, south and Jersey Shore, and yes, all 600-plus diners.”

Obama hails Democrat victories in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City

Former President Barack Obama
congratulated Democrats on their Election Day sweep Tuesday night, praising what he called a win for “forward-looking leaders who care about the issues that matter.”

“Congratulations to all the Democratic candidates who won tonight,” Obama wrote on X. “It’s a reminder that when we come together around strong, forward-looking leaders who care about the issues that matter, we can win. We’ve still got plenty of work to do, but the future looks a little bit brighter.”

Democrats secured victories in both the Virginia and New Jersey gubernatorial races and in the New York City mayoral contest, giving the party a clean sweep in three closely watched elections.

The wins were a morale boost for Democrats as they look ahead to the 2026 midterms.

GOP operative says Mamdani win is ‘a political gift that keeps on giving’: SOURCES

A Republican campaign operative reportedly told News Nation’s Kellie Meyer that Zohran Mamdani’s election victory is giving “Republicans a political gift that keeps on giving.”

“Democrats have made a Communist the face of their Party in the nation’s largest city, providing Republicans a political gift that keeps on giving,” the operative told Meyer.

Mamdani’s campaign was endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a group he has also been a member of and headlined its national convention in 2023.

“Thousands of DSA members in NYC-DSA played critical roles in the campaign as staff and volunteers,” a DSA press release Tuesday night stated. “Our movement won a decisive victory but the real battles are just beginning.”

WH slams Mamdani’s ‘completely irresponsible’ comments linking Trump to threats against voters

The White House slammed New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani after he linked the Trump administration to threats against voters in New Jersey.

On Tuesday, as New Jerseyans went to cast their ballots, bomb threats forced voters out of multiple polling places. While the threats were found to be non-credible, they still caused a disruption to those looking to exercise their right to vote for the Garden State’s next governor. When asked about the threats in his neighboring state, Mamdani made comments that raised eyebrows and rocked the West Wing.

Mamdani called the threats “incredibly concerning”
and said that he believed they were “an illustration of the attacks we’re seeing on our democracy.”

“We have to understand this as part of the general approach the Trump administration has taken to trying to intimidate voters with baseless allegations of voter fraud as a means of trying to repress the voice of Americans across this country,” Mamdani said.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Mamdani’s remarks were “completely irresponsible” and not based in fact.

“I think they are completely irresponsible, and they are based on zero evidence. And I think this is just another example of how the Democrat Party unfortunately stands for nothing. All they stand against is President Donald Trump
. And I think it’s quite sad to see that we have someone at the top of the ticket on an Election Day today saying such things about the president, when he obviously had absolutely nothing to do with those threats,” Leavitt said in response to a question from Fox News’ Jacqui Heinrich.

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News’ Rachel Wolf.

Democrats keep Pennsylvania Supreme Court control after 3 justices win retention races

All three justices on the ballot in Pennsylvania will keep their jobs after winning races on Tuesday in an election that had threatened to change the state Supreme Court’s liberal composition.

Democrats will continue to hold a 5-2 majority on the state’s highest court, a result of voters overwhelmingly choosing to retain Democratic Justices Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty and David Wecht. The Associated Press called the races at about 10 p.m. local time.

“Tonight, folks across our Commonwealth sent a resounding message by voting to retain all three Supreme Court Justices who will continue to defend the rule of law, safeguard our elections, and protect our constitutional rights,” Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a statement.

The race attracted millions of dollars, exceeding spending in past retention elections, as state and national Republicans pushed for a referendum on the state Supreme Court’s unfavorable decisions in recent years on COVID-19 and election litigation. Democrats’ campaign focused in part on women’s abortion access and reproductive health services.

President Donald Trump had weighed in on the race this week, calling for the three justices’ ousters. Trump said they “ruled for Sleepy Joe Biden over and over, and interfered in the 2020 Election” and that it was “time for Justice.”

Most New Jersey voters wanted ‘change’ candidate

Voters in New Jersey were asked which candidate quality mattered most to their vote for governor.

Three-in-ten said that having a governor who will bring needed change mattered the most, followed by having a candidate who will share their values and one who will work for them.

Socialist shockwave: Zohran Mamdani stuns NYC as voters hand power to Democrats’ far-left flank

Self-described democratic socialist toppled former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a contentious fight for the future of New York City — and possibly the direction of the Democratic Party.

Mamdani, the 34-year-old Ugandan-born state assemblyman from Queens, triggered a political earthquake when he declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary in June, pulling an upset over a former governor who was widely expected to win the party’s nomination.

He has since been catapulted onto the national stage, teaming up with progressive power duo Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., to rally New York City voters for his affordability agenda, which includes ambitious campaign promises like rent freezes, fast and free buses, city-run grocery stores and free childcare.

It’s a race that President Donald Trump himself has been watching closely, labeling Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic” and “My little communist” — monikers Mamdani has rejected. On the eve of Election Day, Trump endorsed Cuomo and floated cutting federal funds to New York City if Mamdani won. In the days leading up to the election, Mamdani vowed to use the “bully pulpit” and the judicial system to fight back against Trump’s “threats.”

“Donald Trump may speak as if it is his decision, but this is money that this city is owed. This is money that we will expect to collect,” Mamdani said Monday.

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News Digital’s Deirdre Heavey.

Democrat Mikie Sherrill wins New Jersey governor race, keeps state blue against Republican challenge

The Fox News Decision Desk projected that New Jersey
Democrat Rep. Mikie Sherrill will become the next governor of New Jersey, keeping the state blue in her ballot battle against Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli.

By defeating Ciattarelli in a very competitive and combustible race that grabbed plenty of national attention, Sherrill will succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy.

Sherrill has served in the U.S. House since 2019, after flipping the Garden State’s 11th District seat away from the Republicans as part of 2018’s blue wave election year during President Donald Trump’s first term in the White House.

Sherrill made history as the first woman to represent the suburban district in northern New Jersey.

“We’ve seen, you know, rallies with thousands of people. The early vote, the vote by mail is very, very good,” a confident Sherrill told reporters on Election Day after casting her ballot. “I think I’m going to do quite well today.”

Asked by Fox News on Election Day about her timetable for resigning from her U.S. House seat and, when she takes over as governor, calling for a special congressional election to fill the vacant seat, Sherrill said, “We’ve been totally focused on this election. We’ll be in touch with the leadership of the House to make sure that we’re doing that as smoothly as possible for the people of New Jersey.”

This is an excerpt of an article by Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton and Paul Steinhauser.

Fox News Decision Desk: Jay Jones wins Virginia AG race

The Fox News Decision Desk can now project that Democrat Jay Jones will become Virginia’s next Attorney General, defeating Republican incumbent Jason Miyares.

In October, Jones apologized for text messages he had sent where he imagined putting “two bullets to the head” of a GOP lawmaker, and then wishing the death of that lawmaker’s children.

Chuck Schumer says Dem victories ‘repudiation of the Trump agenda’

Following major Democratic victories in Virginia, New Jersey and New York City, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., called tonight’s election results “a repudiation of the Trump agenda.”

“This was a good night for Democrats and our fight to lower costs, improve healthcare, and reach a better future for American families. But more importantly, it was a good night for working families who’ve struggled with endlessly rising costs and felt unheard for far too long. Tonight, their voices were heard loud and clear,” said Schumer.

He added that “the cruelty, chaos, and greed that define MAGA radicalism and are skyrocketing costs were firmly rejected by the American people.”

“If Republicans want to keep blindly following Donald Trump into the abyss of chaos, let them. The rest of America is moving forward.”

This comes as the ongoing government shutdown
, largely over expiring Obamacare subsidies, ties the record for longest in U.S. history. Senate Democrats on Tuesday blocked Republicans’ attempt to reopen the government for a 14th time, all but ensuring that the government shutdown becomes the longest in U.S. history.

Breaking NewsFox News Decision Desk: Zohran Mamdani wins New York City mayoral race

The Fox News Decision Desk can now project that New York City will elect Democratic Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani as its next Mayor.

He will become the first Muslim mayor of the city and its youngest in more than a century.

He is also the city’s next Democratic Socialist mayor.

GOP group trolls Jay Jones with ‘two-bullets guy’ stickers

Republicans made a final Election Day push to remind voters of the scandals surrounding Virginia Democratic attorney general candidate Jay Jones — handing out five different stickers highlighting them.

State and county governments typically offer “I voted” stickers to voters who show up to the polls as a way to show pride in doing their biannual duty, and the Republican Attorneys General Association took the tradition one step further.

Four of the five stickers are formatted in a red circle with an “I didn’t vote for…” tagline: each drawing attention to one of Jones’ scandals.

One sticker read: “I didn’t vote for the political violence guy,” while another read: “I didn’t vote for the two-bullets guy.”

“I didn’t vote for the ‘get out of jail free’ guy,” read another, which featured Jones in a stovepipe hat dressed as Uncle Pennybags from Monopoly.

The sticker is a reference to an ongoing but murky-in-specifics investigation of Jones following his affirmation of 1,000 community service hours in recompense for a reckless driving arrest.

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News Digital’s Charles Creitz.

Who is Mikie Sherrill?

Rep. Mikie Sherrill went head-to-head with Trump-backed Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the 2025 race for governor of New Jersey. 

Sherrill, 53, a former Navy helicopter pilot and mother of four, has served as a congresswoman for four terms and represents the 11th Congressional District, which includes parts of Essex, Morris and Passaic, New Jersey, counties. 

She was first elected to Congress in the 2018 midterms — the same year she flipped her congressional district blue in the “blue wave” election. 

The veteran and former prosecutor has campaigned on affordability, abortion access, building more homes, reforming school programs, prioritizing mental health services, increasing government transparency and lowering taxes and the cost of healthcare, energy and groceries.

Abigail Spanberger seals historic Virginia win, ending GOP’s Glenn Youngkin era

Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated outgoing Lieutenant Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears to become the next governor of Virginia.

Republicans had hoped to replicate the 2021 upset engineered by outgoing Gov. Glenn Youngkin but now face at least two years without control in Richmond, with both legislative chambers remaining in Democratic hands.

In her campaign ads, Spanberger highlighted her resume as a former federal agent investigating crimes against children and later counter-terrorism with the CIA. She also served as a U.S. Postal Inspector investigating drug trafficking and money laundering before joining Langley.

Spanberger made health care and abortion an issue in her campaign, painting Earle-Sears as radical on the latter — as the Republican previously called for limited exceptions for ending a pregnancy.

She has described herself as a more moderate candidate than Republicans claim, while the GOP highlighted her near-100% voting record in line with then-President Joe Biden while she was in the House as a reason to doubt any claims of pragmatism.

Late in the campaign, Spanberger drew in several Democratic heavy-hitters, including former President Barack Obama and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is seen as a potential 2028 name. Biden, however, was noticeably absent from the trail, and a prior inquiry on that detail with the Delaware Democrat’s team went unanswered.

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News’ Charles Creitz.

Democrat Aftab Pureval wins second term as Cincinnati mayor

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, the Democrat incumbent, won a second term on Tuesday, defeating Republican challenger Cory Bowman.

Pureval, a former special assistant U.S. attorney, first claimed the mayor’s office in 2021. He is expected to speak at 9:30 p.m.

Bowman, the half-brother of Vice President JD Vance, has never held public office but was inspired to run after Vance’s inauguration. Vance remained on the sidelines during Bowman’s campaign.

‘Incredible win:’ Gov. Newsom congratulates Spanberger

California Governor Gavin Newsom congratulated fellow Democrat Abigail Spanberger on X following her win in Virginia.

“What an incredible win!!! Congratulations to the new Governor-elect @SpanbergerForVA!

Spanberger is the state’s first female governor. She will succeed Republican Glenn Youngkin.

Fox News Decision Desk: Dem wins in VA Lt Gov

The Fox News Decision Desk can now project that Democratic State Senator Ghazala Hashmi will serve as Virginia’s next Lieutenant Governor.

Hashmi will be the first-ever Muslim woman elected to statewide office. She defeats Republican John Reid.

Abigail Spanberger seals historic Virginia win, ending GOP’s Glenn Youngkin era

Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated outgoing Lieutenant Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears to become the next governor of Virginia.

Republicans had hoped to replicate the 2021 upset engineered by outgoing Gov. Glenn Youngkin but now face at least two years without control in Richmond, with both legislative chambers remaining in Democratic hands.

In her campaign ads, Spanberger highlighted her resume as a former federal agent investigating crimes against children and later counter-terrorism with the CIA. She also served as a U.S. Postal Inspector investigating drug trafficking and money laundering before joining Langley.

Spanberger made health care and abortion an issue in her campaign, painting Earle-Sears as radical on the latter — as the Republican previously called for limited exceptions for ending a pregnancy.

She has described herself as a more moderate candidate than Republicans claim, while the GOP highlighted her near-100% voting record in line with then-President Joe Biden while she was in the House as a reason to doubt any claims of pragmatism.

Late in the campaign, Spanberger drew in several Democratic heavy-hitters, including former President Barack Obama and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is seen as a potential 2028 name. Biden, however, was noticeably absent from the trail, and a prior inquiry on that detail with the Delaware Democrat’s team went unanswered.

This is an excerpt from an article written by Fox News’ Charles Creitz.

Democratic Mayor Andre Dickens wins re-election in Atlanta

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens won his re-election race on Tuesday night against three lesser-known candidates, arguing that Atlanta has seen major improvements during his first term in office, Associated Press reported.

Dickens defeated Helmut Domagalski, Kalema Jackson, and Eddie Andrew Meredith. While Dickens was an underdog in his 2021 election, he’s in a much more favorable position this year. Atlanta has a long history of awarding mayors second terms if they seek reelection. Former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was an exception but she didn’t seek a second term.

Candidates for Atlanta mayor were required to win a majority of votes to be elected. If no one surpassed that threshold, the top two vote getters would have advanced to a runoff election on Dec. 2.

Dickens received national attention earlier this year over his support of city run grocery stores, similar to the promises of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.

Associated Press contributed to this report.

Fox News Decision Desk: Spanberger wins VA

The Fox News Decision Desk can now project that Democrat Abigail Spanberger will become the next Governor of Virginia. 

The former House representative will be the first-ever woman to lead the commonwealth. 

Spanberger, who once served as a CIA officer, defeats Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. 

FOX NEWS DECISION DESK: Zohran Mamdani is leading

It’s 9 o’clock and polls have now closed in New York City. Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani is leading his race against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent.

The question in this high-turnout election is whether Republican Curtis Sliwa will act as Cuomo’s spoiler.

Virginia elects Ghazala Hashmi as first Muslim in statewide office

Fox News Decision Desk projected that Virginia state Sen. Ghazala Hashmi is set to become the next lieutenant governor of Virginia, marking the first time a Muslim has been elected to statewide office in the Old Dominion.

Hashmi, who was born in Hyderabad, India, and grew up in Georgia, represented Chesterfield County in the Virginia State Senate.

Her expected victory over conservative talk radio host John Reid will see her preside over the Virginia State Senate, where Democrats control a narrow majority in the upper chamber.

Hashmi’s campaign focused on supporting public education, expanding Medicaid and protecting abortion rights, among other priorities. She also leaned into climate change, environmental protection and affordable housing.

It also comes as former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Va., was projected to capture the governor’s mansion in Virginia after toppling outgoing Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears.

Spanberger and Hashmi will take over with a Democratic trifecta in the state.

Fox News Decision Desk: Sherril extends lead

The Fox News Decision Desk also believes that in New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill now has a solid lead.

Virginia elects Ghazala Hashmi as first Muslim in statewide office

Fox News Decision Desk projected that Virginia state Sen. Ghazala Hashmi is set to become the next lieutenant governor of Virginia, marking the first time a Muslim has been elected to statewide office in the Old Dominion.

Hashmi, who was born in Hyderabad, India, and grew up in Georgia, represented Chesterfield County in the
Virginia State Senate
.

Her expected victory over conservative talk radio host John Reid will see her preside over the Virginia State Senate, where Democrats control a narrow majority in the upper chamber.

Hashmi’s campaign focused on supporting public education, expanding Medicaid and protecting abortion rights, among other priorities. She also leaned into climate change, environmental protection and affordable housing.

It also comes as former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Va., was projected to capture the governor’s mansion in Virginia after toppling outgoing Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears.

Spanberger and Hashmi will take over with a Democratic trifecta in the state.