The big surprise has been confirmed. A Democrat wins in the "deep south"

Democrat Scott Colom won the Senate race in Mississippi, defeating incumbent Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith by a narrow margin. His victory marks the first time an African American will represent the state since 1874. Colom's win is seen as a significant surprise in a traditionally conservative state, especially after Donald Trump's substantial victory there in the 2024 presidential election. The campaign shifted after a viral ad highlighted Hyde-Smith's controversial remarks about beef prices. Colom's success increases the Democratic Senate seats to at least 55, with potential for 56 pending results from Alaska.