John Fetterman, a Democrat, is anticipated to win Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senate race.
Tuesday, Fetterman beat Republican Dr. Mehmet Oz.
Fox News and NBC News were among the first news outlets to predict Fetterman’s victory.
As of early Wednesday morning, Fetterman has earned 50.3% of the vote, with Oz following with 47.69%, according to Decision Desk HQ data updated Wednesday morning.
His victory signifies a Democratic shift in the Senate’s finely split upper chamber.
Early Wednesday morning, Fetterman declared triumph.
It's official. I will be the next U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania.
We bet on the people of Pennsylvania – and you didn’t let us down
And I won’t let you down. Thank you.
— John Fetterman (@JohnFetterman) November 9, 2022
The current lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania, Fetterman, also acknowledged his supporters.
Wiping away tears, Senator-elect John Fetterman (D-PA) takes the stage at his victory speech to “Back in Black.” pic.twitter.com/raVlahIHL8
— The Recount (@therecount) November 9, 2022
At the time of Fetterman’s winning speech, Oz had not conceded the contest officially.
The former mayor of Braddock, Pennsylvania, will succeed retiring Republican Senator Pat Toomey.
The loss is a significant setback for Republicans and threatens the party’s midterm ambitions for a Senate majority.
Ultimately, outcomes in Arizona, Nevada, and Georgia will determine the chamber’s majority, with Republicans likely need victories in all three states to obtain a majority.