In the closely watched 2024 US elections, voters chose representatives for the Senate, House of Representatives, and several gubernatorial races. The Republican Party secured a significant victory, winning control of the Senate and achieving gains in the House, while Donald Trump was elected to a second presidential term.
2024 Senate Election Results
Republicans now hold a majority in the Senate, winning 52 seats, a net gain of three. Before the election, Democrats had held a slim majority with the support of four independents who caucus with them. The Senate elections featured 33 regular contests and two special elections.
Notable Senate results:
- Montana: Republicans flipped the seat, contributing to their majority win.
- Arizona: Ruben Gallego (D) leads with 50.4% against Kari Lake (R), but the race remains undecided.
House of Representatives Results
The House races, which elect all 435 seats every two years, were highly competitive. Republicans currently lead with 198 seats, a slight gain from their previous majority. Democrats hold 180 seats, leaving both parties vying for the 217 needed for control as results continue to come in.
Key House results include:
- Montana 1st District: Republicans retained the seat.
- Michigan 7th District: Republicans flipped this district, reinforcing their hold in the House.
Related: 2024 us election results
Governor Races
Eleven gubernatorial elections took place, with Republicans and Democrats both defending critical states. Republicans have secured 27 governorships, while Democrats hold 23. Among notable results:
- Missouri: Republican Mike Kehoe won with 59.2%, maintaining Republican control.
- Indiana: Mike Braun (R) won with 54.6%, securing another Republican victory.
How US Elections Work
Senate Elections
Senate seats are contested every six years, with one-third of the 100 seats up for election in each cycle. Each state, regardless of population, elects two senators. Georgia and Louisiana have special run-off rules, requiring a candidate to win more than 50% of the vote or face a run-off.
House Elections
The House of Representatives has 435 seats, elected every two years. Each seat represents a specific district, with the Speaker serving as the House’s presiding officer. The House holds exclusive powers like initiating revenue bills and impeachment.
Governor Elections
Governors, the executive heads of each state, are elected directly by voters, with most serving four-year terms. Governors implement state laws and have executive powers, including issuing orders, proposing budgets, and vetoing legislation.
Reporting and Results Process
The Associated Press (AP) reports election results, calling winners when trailing candidates have no clear path to victory. In some states, a ranked-choice voting system is used; if no candidate achieves 50%, votes are redistributed until a winner is declared.
Supporting Independent Journalism
In times of significant political shifts, independent journalism remains essential. The Guardian, funded by its readers, continues to deliver comprehensive, unbiased coverage and in-depth investigative reporting.