By Nicholas Scotchie, Political Reporter

    In accordance with the polls and pundit predictions, the Democrats have become the majority party in the House of Representatives. Being propelled by wins in suburban districts and fueled by a mixture of moderate and progressive candidates, a large number of them female, has turned the speaker’s gavel blue for the first time since the Republican wave of 2010. A projected majority of 229 seats awaits presumptive speaker-elect Nancy Pelosi.

    While Democrats have succeeded in capturing Republican seats in Arizona and Nevada, the Republicans have held onto their majority by flipping seats held by Democrats in North Dakota, Indiana, Missouri, and Florida.

    With the Democrats flipping the House and the Republicans retaining the Senate, it looks certain that gridlock will follow come the next congress. While both were unable to attain total congressional control, they accomplished their more realistic goals, the Democrats took the House, and the Republican expanded their senate majority.

    Turning to state and local elections in New York, Democrats have won all statewide races, including Governor Andrew Cuomo’s successful re-election bid. On top of that, Democrats have won the State Senate. Among them is John Liu of Bayside, who defeated three other candidates, including the incumbent Tony Avella, increasing the potential of future progressive legislation.