Jacob Francy, '26
On November 7, millions of Americans went to the polls. Although there weren’t many elections nationwide, many key positions were held up for a vote: Virginia’s state legislature, Kentucky’s and Mississippi’s governors, and two amendments to the Ohio state constitution.
Virginia Legislature:
Overview: Going into the election, the Republicans controlled the State House, and the Democrats controlled the State Senate, all under Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Results: The Virginia Democrats flipped the Senate to a projected one-seat control: 21-19 while also maintaining the State House with a projected 51-49 advantage. Glenn Youngkin’s chances, who doesn’t run for re-election for Governor until 2025, are not looking good for another term.
Mississippi Governor:
Overview: Incumbent Republican Tate Reaves took on Democrat, and Elvis Presley’s second cousin, Brandon Presley for an expectedly close race, which is rare in the state.
Results: Governor Reaves won re-election over Presley by 37,000 votes (407,000-370,000). Reaves received 51% of the vote to Presley’s 47%.
Kentucky Governor:
Overview: Incumbent Democratic Governor Andy Beshear was challenged by his own Attorney General, Daniel Cameron, a young, strong voice.
Results: Beshear retained his Governorship, winning his re-election bid by 67,000 votes (693,000-626,000), which was a 52.5% majority.
Ohio Amendment: Abortion Rights
Overview: Ohio allowed its own voters to decide whether or not the state should add the right to an abortion in the state constitution.
Results: Citizens have voted in favor of women’s rights by choosing to allow any woman to go through an abortion. 56% of voters (2.19 million) voted for “Yes,” which is a stronger majority than analysts expected.
Progressives and Democrats across the country are celebrating their massive win during an off-year election. With President Biden’s 39% approval rating currently, it is odd how well the Democratic Party has performed so far. What will happen next year?
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