Donald Trump won the 2024 Presidential election by securing the 270 electoral votes needed to declare victory. As of 10 a.m on Nov. 6, he has 277 electoral votes (51%), while Kamala Harris has only 224 (49.5%). The following states have not yet announced official results: Nevada (Trump leading with 55.5%), Arizona (Trump leading with 51.9%), Alaska (Trump leading with 55.6%) and Maine (Harris leading with 53.1%). Regardless, the Democratic nominees were undoubtedly defeated in the Presidential race, and it is not the only major party loss.
Republicans also reclaimed control of the U.S. Senate, having won three seats to put the GOP at a total of 52. Democrats lost three seats, currently standing at 42. Six seats are still to be called, but the results would not change the majority outcome. This turnover marks the first time in four years that the GOP has power in numbers over this side of the legislative branch.
America functions on a system of checks and balances. Congress, which includes the Senate and The U.S. House of Representatives, has the power to veto a Presidential bill, thus preventing executive action that the Senate and House deem unfavorable. The President may also veto congressional legislation. This process was created to ensure fairness, so no governing body may have full control over the nation.
The House party majority remains undetermined. The GOP now stands at 199 seats, and gained one. Democrats lost a seat, with 180 secured. A total of 218 seats are needed for a majority win. The race is close, with 57 seats yet to be announced. All figures noted are according to the Associated Press live coverage.
The Republican presidential ticket was selected, and the party took back the Senate majority. If the GOP also receives a majority of seats in the House, Congress as a whole would mainly seat Republicans. Congressional elections occur every two years. If Republicans win most House seats, democratic leaders will have the burden of convincing the opposing party to back their decisions until at least 2026.
Periodic updates:
As of 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 6, Republicans gained two more seats in the House since 10 a.m., and now hold 201. Democrats gained four more seats in the House since 10 a.m., and now hold 184. Fifty seats remain open, and will depend on several determining races, including Maine’s 2nd Congressional District. Democratic Candidate Jared Golden (incumbent) is leading with 51.9% of the Maine votes counted. Republican Candidate Austin Theriault earned 48% of the votes.