Alwaght- Democrats have retained control of the Senate, narrowly, following a tight midterm race. On Saturday, Democratic Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada managed to win her campaign for reelection, securing 50 seats and therefore an effective majority, for the party.
Vice President Kamala Harris will be able to break any ties in the 100-member chamber.
It was still unclear which party would control the House of Representatives as counting continued in razor-tight races in California and a smattering of other states. It could take several days or more before the outcome of enough House races are known to determine party control of that 435-seat chamber.
Democratic control of the Senate ensures a smoother process for Biden’s Cabinet appointments and judicial picks, including those for potential Supreme Court openings.
The party will also keep control over committees and have the power to conduct investigations or oversight of the Biden administration, and will be able to reject legislation sent over by the House if the Republicans win that chamber.
Biden, who was in Cambodia to attend a summit of Southeast Asian leaders, said he was feeling “good about where we are”.
“Again, I’m not surprised by the turnout. I’m incredibly pleased,” he told reporters. “And I think it’s a reflection of the quality of our candidates.”
