NEENAH, WI (WSAU) – All major outlets are now calling Wisconsin’s US Senate race for Ron Johnson.
With 98.9% of the precincts counted, Johnson leads challenger Mandela Barnes by 27,000 votes. The call comes about one hour after Johnson declared victory, saying his team did not see a mathematical path that would have Barnes overcome the deficit.
“The votes are in. In all Democrat strongholds, municipalities are reporting 100% of wards are in and counted. There are some counties that have anywhere from 3-10% of the votes outstanding. These localities represent areas where we are winning by over 60%,” said Johnson.
Barnes conceded the race shortly after 12:15 PM, saying he was giving a speech that he hoped he wouldn’t have to give.
A Johnson victory would give the Oshkosh republican a third term in the U.S. Senate and a key “hold” for the GOP.
The balance of power in the senate is still unknown. Democrats have flipped a key seat in Pennsylvania. Democrats have been leading in Arizona, with Republicans hoping to flip the seat in Nevada. Control of the senate could hinge on a run-off in Georgia on December 6.
