7 Nov 2019

Democrats make gains in US local elections

From Morning Report, 7:21 am on 7 November 2019

In America the Democrats have made significant gains in local elections held in several states on Tuesday.

Latest projections suggest they've taken control of the state legislature in Virginia, overturning slim Republican majorities in both houses.

The Democrat's candidate for governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, is claiming victory over the Republican incumbent, Matt Bevin - a firm supporter of Donald Trump.

If confirmed, analysts say this would be a significant blow to Mr Trump one year ahead of the presidential election.

RNZ's correspondent in Washington is Simon Marks.