4 major election results: NJ, Va. state races, NYC elects democratic socialist Mamdani, Calif. passes Prop 50

While voters in several states and localities went to the polls Tuesday to select new leaders and weigh in on ballot measures, all eyes were on two gubernatorial races, the New York City mayoral race, and a referendum in California that could have an impact on which party controls the U.S. House of Representatives next year.

Last night's results were pleasing for Democrats, who found themselves completely locked out of power in the federal government following the 2024 presidential election last year.

1. Virginia: Democrats sweep statewide races, secure a trifecta​

Virginia had three statewide offices on the ballot Tuesday, and Democrats won all three races. Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Sears in the gubernatorial race. With over 95% of the vote reporting, Spanberger has captured 57.5% of the vote to Sears’ 42.5%. Spanberger, who will become the first female governor in Virginia history, will replace the term-limited Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

In the lieutenant governor’s race, Democrat Ghazala Hashmi defeated Republican John Reid. With over 95% of the vote counted, Hashmi has won 55.6% of the vote to Reid’s 44.4%. Hashmi will occupy the office currently held by Sears, who gave up her post to run for governor.

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