Live News Wire

At 4:20, Hotline projects that Al Weed (D) got smoked.

CANVASS DETAILS IN VIRGINIA: Canvasses begin tomorrow morning. Some as early as 8 am.
VA: No credentials are needed to observe a canvass as a representative of the parties and candidates. Credentials are only needed to attend the special session handling provisional allots -- must be local party chair or registered voter in the jurisdiction and carry a letter signed by local party chair.

VA SEN: Also: There are 33K uncounted votes in Fairfax, Co, VA. They'll be counted tonight. (Hotline)

VA:SEN: Webb, addressing his supporters: "It's getting pretty late. I wanted to say I appreciate what Senator Allen said a few minutes ago. ... I'd also like to say the votes are in and we won" (CNN)

VA SEN: Ex-Bush/Cheney Counsel Ben Ginsburg, on a recount: "For the time being, it's going to be assumed everything was done properly" (MSNBC)

MO SEN: Claire McCaskill came on stage to “Respect” (MSNBC). McCaskill, addressing supporters: "This election was not about me. This election was about you" (MSNBC). Talent conceded at 2:03 am ET. Talent, addressing supporters: "All our efforts fell a little bit short this time."

MO SEN: U.S. News' Barone, on McCaskill: "It would seem that ... what hasn't been counted yet would help her. ... They key is the St. Louis area. ... We don't know what's not reported yet in St. Louis county. We don't know if there's large numbers of those black precincts out there" (FNC).

MT SEN: FNC's Shepard Smith, after hearing U.S. News’ Barone's analysis of the MT race: "I'm not sure what just happened" (FNC).

TN SEN: Ford, opening his concession speech: "I want to be brief" (MSNBC).

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Stephen Colbert noted every Rep. in the "Colbert 28" interviewed for "To Better Know A District" was re-elected: "Nation, my candidates have swept back into power with an overwhelming mandate and now it's time for them to repay my tit with their ample tat. I'm not asking for anything big, folks, just the one thing the nation desperately needs: A $315 million bridge to connect my desk to the interview table” (“Colbert Report,” Comedy Central, 11/7).

MSNBC calls NV GOV for Gibbons (R), AK GOV for Palin (R), and ID GOV for Otter (R)

Bob Shrum: “For me, it’s a very different election night than 2004” (MSNBC).

“The political pendulum in American politics swung away from the right yesterday, putting an end to the 12-year Republican Revolution on Capitol Hill and delivering a sharp rebuke of President Bush and the Iraq war.: (Washington Post)

Democrats seized control of the House of Representatives and ousted at least three Republican senators yesterday, riding a wave of voter discontent with President Bush and the war in Iraq in the most contested Congressional battle since Republicans captured Congress 12 years ago. (New York Times)

Murtha, asked if he still wants to be House Maj. Leader: "Absolutely. ... I'm very close to having the votes. ... I look forward to working with Nancy" (MSNBC).

RedState is calling for scrubbing of Rep. Denny Hastert (R-IL) and election of Rep. Mike Pence (R-06) as leader of the House GOP and Rep. John Shadegg (R-AZ) as Whip. "The Directors" of RedState describe the GOP as "rudderless" under the leadership of a White House governing without "conservative principles first" and call on all GOPers to "decisively reject the idea of "big government conservatism." (The Blogometer)

Ehrlich’s camp is calling it a night, but not conceding. Ehrlich spokesperson Shareese DeLeaver says they’re waiting for a full and final tally of absentee and provisional ballots; lawyers are standing by. “After a few hours sleep we'll reassess where we are,” DeLeaver said.

SEN nominee Michael Steele has taken a similar course. DeLeaver said, however, that this isn’t a coordinated effort, and each camp is acting on its own in delaying a final concession. The latest count, with 81% of precincts reporting, has Matrin O’Malley about 55K votes ahead. (Hotline reporting).

DNC chairman Howard Dean: “Today the American people sent a clear message for a new direction. Voting for hope and opportunity, they rejected the Republican culture of corruption and the politics of fear and smear. I want to congratulate all of our Democratic candidates who ran strong campaigns, worked hard, and offered the American people a clear choice and a strong vision for a new direction based on the priorities of the American people. The American voters also sent a message to Democrats that if we show up, work hard and ask for their vote, we can win in any part of the country. I also want to congratulate Representatives Emanuel and Pelosi, Senators Reid and Schumer, DGA Chair Governor Bill Richardson and DLCC Chair Joan Fitz-Gerald, Colorado State Senate President, for their hard work. Our work doesn't end tonight; it begins tomorrow as we put forward an agenda that puts the American people first. Democrats are unified and ready to change the tone of politics in Washington to get things done for the American people.”

House Maj. Leader Boehner: “Our challenge as Republicans is to regain our confidence, our courage, and our energy to address the big issues that matter – balancing the budget by reducing the size of government and cutting wasteful spending, reforming entitlement programs that aren’t sustainable for our children and our grandchildren, providing tax relief to enhance freedom and prosperity for American families, and strengthening national and border security. If Republicans stand together and unite behind solutions and ideas that move us closer to our common vision of a freer, more prosperous America, I’m confident the American people will return us to the majority in two years.”

Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) declares Maj. Leader candidacy: ""Voters gave Democrats a vote of confidence today to take our nation in a new direction, and to address the challenges that confront the American people. The new House Democratic Majority, led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, is determined to meet this responsibility and to lead and govern effectively. As part of the leadership team that helped regain the House Majority, I would like to continue to serve House Democrats as their Majority Leader. Over the past several months, I have talked with almost every one of my House colleagues and Members-elect, and am grateful for the depth of support I have received."

Gov. Tom Vilsack (D-IA): "Americans turned out today to choose candidates that offered big ideas and real plans of action. They chose candidates with optimism and experience in dealing with the issues facing our nation. Now is the time for work to begin, in earnest, in bringing our country together. Nationally, the vote today was a mandate for change in Washington and for putting this country back on track with common sense ideas and values. We also had a very well run election in Iowa, which is because of the hard work and fairness of election officials, beginning with Secretary of State and Governor-elect Chet Culver. That's the good news."

12:58 am ET

MO SEN: Bill Kristol, on McCaskill's new lead in MO: "It's hard to believe that that lead's not going to increase. I believe now that Missouri is going to go Democratic. ... If you had to bet right now, you'd have to bet on a Democratic Senate" (FNC).

Again, keep in mind that there are still thousands of votes not yet counted in MO’s two population centers:

In Western MO, Kansas City has NOT REPORTED A SINGLE PRECINCT, per the MO elections site. There are 186 in the city. In the KC suburb of Jackson Co, 157 of 294 precincts have been tabulated.

Across the state, St. Louis City has reported numbers from 190 of 203 precincts. In St. Louis Co, only 209 of 681 precincts have reported.

So in these four localities, the largest in the state, there are still 818 precincts unaccounted for out of a total of 1364. All four will likely go for McCaskill, and KC/Jackson is her home base.

MN GOV: Gov.Tim Pawlenty is up by 1% with 75% reporting. A DFL sources says this is going to go all night…

AP calls IL 06 for state Sen. Peter Roskam (R)

Rep. Jim Leach (R-IA 02) could be the next longtime incumbent to be upset… he’s losing by 500 votes with 97% of precincts reporting

12:50 am ET

St. Paul Pioneer Press calls MN 06 for Bachmann (R).

12:48 am ET

MSNBC’s Olbermann, on Allen’s speech: “I think what he essentially said is he’s going to bed” (MSNBC).

MSNBC reports it is not exactly projecting Corker as the winner in TN SEN, but is "going by straight math."

CNN's Johns on TN SEN: "Ford ran a very good race. ... He did not give this fight up all the way down to the wire. ... It's turned Harold Ford into a political rock star."

12:46 am ET

Sen. George Allen (R), speaking to supporters: "I thank God that we live in a country where the rights of the people are enshrined and protected in our Constitution. ... This has been an interesting election and the election continues. ... We're talking about how important it is to get every vote in. ... The first time I won an election I won by 18 votes. We had to have a recount. The point is we're still counting votes. ... I've been through it. I know the counting will continue tonight and through tomorrow" (CNN).

James Carville, on VA SEN: "There's going to be a recount. ... The same thing could happen in Missouri" (CNN).

12:33 am: MSNBC calls Corker (R) in TN SEN. FNC's Lowry, on Corker: "He brought some new people in [after the primary] and really ran a fantastic campaign" (FNC).

12:45 am ET

Howard Dean will appear at the Nat’l Press Club at 10:00 am ET today.

12:40 am ET

CNN's Greenfield, on VA SEN: "There are reports that the Associated Press numbers are different -- inverted -- from the secretary of state numbers."

At 12:29 am, FNC calls TN SEN in favor of Bob Corker (R).

MSNBC's Matthews, giving viewers incentives to stay tuned for SEN results: "It's worth staying up for. And we're not doing that much advertising tonight."

Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) said: "A lot is going to rest on how the president approaches the results of the election tonight." Asked if the results encourage him to run for the WH: "It confirms in my mind the American people are ready to move in a new direction ... but it's important for me to take some time and think about how I can be most useful in the future. This will probably the first week in a month where I don't have to take off my shoes in airport security lines. I'll have a chance to talk to my wife." More: "Nothing happened tonight that would discourage me" ("LKL").

FEELING MN: With 71% reporting, Bachmann (R) leads Wetterling (D) in MN 06 49%-42%. With 68% reporting, Pawlenty (D) leads Hatch (R) in GOV at 46%-45%. And with 67% reporting, Walz (D) leads Gutknecht (R) in MN 01 at 52%-46%. (Election Results)

According to Bill Kristol, Dems will "probably" pick up MO, and "probably" pick up MT. The odds are "slightly better than 50-50" that Dems will overtake the Senate. And FNC's Shepard Smith, being really clever: "Virginia is changing from 'Virginia is for Lovers' to 'Virginia is for Lawyers'" (FNC).

12:35 am ET

Speaker-to-Be Nancy Pelosi: "Democrats promise to work together in a bipartisan way for all Americans." More Pelosi, on Iraq: “We cannot continue down this catastrophic path.” She also said “Dems intend to lead the most honest, the most open and the most ethical Congress in history" (CNN).

"MSNBC's Matthews, observing the celebratory behavior at the Dems' HQ: "Rahm Emanuel appears to be doing some kind of dance."

12:30 am ET

ABC News projects that Dems will win between 28 and 36 seats in the House.

“Democrats experience controlled joy” (Chicago Tribune).

Howard Dean: “Chuck Schumer and Rahm Emanuel deserve an enormous amount of credit.” He then plugged his 50-state program (CNN). More Dean: "I'm delighted because we're finally beginning to become a national party again after all these years" (CNN).

During Martin O’Malley’s victory speech, he congratulated ex-Baltimore Mayor Tommy D’Allessandro, “The brother of the next speaker of the House” (NewsChannel8).

NBC's Williams, playing SEN favorites: "The Montana race has been one of my favorites" (MSNBC).

CA Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's campaign victory party is unfolding at the “plush Beverly Hilton hotel, which hosted the "Beverly Hills 90210: The Complete First Season" DVD party last Friday (Los Angeles Times blog).

12:12 am ET

Check the netroots House take over elation roundup over at the Blogometer.

12:10 am ET

Dem state legislative successes continue, as the party has picked up the IA State House. Before tonight, GOPers held a 51-49 advantage. The state Sen remains too close to call. Dems have picked up the NH Sen, the IN House and the MN House. A bright spot for GOPers: The party took enough seats to force the OK Sen to a tie. In ’04, GOPers won the OK House for the first time in 86 years.

In ballot measure news, a statewide ban on abortions was headed to defeat, and with 57% of the vote in, the MO Stem Cell initiative was failing, 52%-48%. However, as we mentioned earlier, more votes have to be counted in St. Louis and Kansas City.

12:04 am ET

Amendment 1 in VA, which bans same-sex marriage and civil unions, passed "overwhelmingly." Although the numbers aren't all in, the stem cell amendment in MO "appears to be losing." Meanwhile, the abortion ban will not pass in SD (MSNBC).

CNN's Blitzer warned: "We're not leaving until we know who controls the United States Senate."

MORE WIND: FNC's Wallace: "When people look back at this election, they're going to call it 'The Iraq Midterm.' ... Iraq and corruption created an awful lot of headwind" (FNC).

ABC's Bury, in Missouri: "The momentum does appear to be going in Talent's direction."

ABC's Donvan reports that Sen. Conrad Burns (R-MT) has lost his voice.

MoveOn.org’ Eli Pariser on PA 04: “Congratulations to Jason Altmire. MoveOn members worked hard to elect him” (Hotline reporting).

11:58 pm ET

CNN's Blitzer: "CNN is staying with its projection that Cardin has won."

U.S. News' Barone, on Steele refusing to concede to Cardin: "I think Steele is perhaps preparing some challenge to the legitimacy of the vote. ... I have to say I'm puzzled by his strategy" (FNC).

FNC's Baier, quoting WH press sec. Tony Snow about the Dems regaining control of the House: "The White House believes there are interesting opportunities here." Also according to Baier, the WH believes "there's still hope" that the Senate will remain in GOP hands.

At 11:41 pm, FNC projects that Rep. Deborah Pryce (R-OH 15) has won re-election. Also at 11:41 pm, FNC predicts that Reps. Melissa Bean (D-IL 08) and Jim Walsh (R-NY 25) have won re-election, Tim Mahoney (D) has defeated Mark Foley/Joe Negron in FL 16, and Rep. Melissa Hart (R-PA 04) has lost re-election.

11:52 pm ET

CNN reports Jim Webb's leading Sen. George Allen by 3,000 votes.

11:50 pm ET

"Pres. Bush called Sen. John McCain to thank him for his work campaigning for Republicans" (Hotline sources)

11:48 pm ET

From WH spokesperson Emily Lawrimore: "Karl has informed the president that they've lost the majority in the House. He's obviously disappointed, but he's eager to work with Congress on his priorities and issues important to Americans." The president called NRCC chair Tom Reynolds tonight, but that was his only call. He's not talked to Hastert or Pelosi. He'll make those calls in the a.m.

At 11:40, MSNBC called Ensign (R) in NV SEN and Akaka (D) in HI SEN.

Ex-RNC Chair Ed Gillespie, asked about George Allen's chances at WH '08: "We're obviously focused on tonight and he being reelected" (MSNBC).

CNN's Schneider, on MO SEN exit polls: "Those who are voting yes on stem cell, three quarters are voting Democrat."

Stephen Colbert, to Rep. Robert Wexler: "If Democrats do take the House, what's the agenda, tax and spend, cut and run, or man on man?"

11:40 pm ET

MSNBC's Olbermann, on the power struggle when the Dems take back the House: "Full speed ahead, but someone else is running the brakes."

“McNerny leads Pombo in early returns” (News10.net)

It is reported Joe Negron (R) left his party crying after losing to Tim Mahoney (D) in FL 16 (MSNBC).

Ex-Rep. Bill McCollum (R) will win the FL AG race (St. Pete Times blog). Cuomo (D) beat Pirro (R) for NY AG (Newsday),
(Tampa Bay blogs)

11:38 pm ET

MSNBC's Shuster reports that out of 2.2M votes cast in VA SEN, half of 1% may be recounted. In that case, the state would pay for the recount. Moreover, the race will "further tighten."

NBC's Gregory: "The president I'm told is likely to retire some time soon tonight" (MSNBC).

Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), in his acceptance speech: “Thank you, thank you, thank you! ….Thank you, Lord! (FNS). Menendez will greet diners at IHOP tomorrow (release).

Jason Altmire is leading Rep. Melissa Hart (R) in every county PA 04.

Stephen Colbert has two cakes: “Congratulations Republicans,” says one. The other: “Congratulations Terrorists.”

Tonight the USA Network aired “End of Days,” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger (Political Punch). Meanwhile, EW.com has a cute article on how Britney Spears filed for divorce on a day many states vote on gay marriage.
, (Pop Watch.Ew.com)

11:35 pm ET

Rep. J.D. Hayworth (R-AZ 05) appears headed for defeat. He’s trailing ex-Tempe Mayor Harry Mitchell (D) 52-45%with 79% of precincts reporting.

11:32 pm ET

At 11:26 pm, FNC called that Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH 01) has lost re-election.

Dick Gephardt, stating the obvious: "This is like the '94 election, but in reverse" (MSNBC).

Also: MSNBC’s Matthews noted that Gephardt has not gotten fat.

NY Compt. Alan Hevesi (D), who faces possible criminal charges for using a state worker to chauffer his wife for 3 years, beat his GOP opponent 59%-27% with 61% reporting (Gannett).

Denver Post called CO GOV for Ritter. (Denver Post)

Weekly Standard's Barnes, on Dems taking control of the House: "The stuff they do proactively, [Bush] can veto. But if they want to cut spending for Iraq and for the military, they can do it." Roll Call's Kondracke: "There will be subpoenas flying like confetti toward the Bush administration" (FNC).

11:30 pm ET

The Atlantic's Joshua Green reports: "Grand zero of the new Democratic majority is located in the basement of the Capitol Hyatt in DC, where the DCCC is hosting a massive "watch party" and the mood resembles that of Times Square about ten second before the apple drops--and yet oddly, the news of the new majority hasn't "officially" reached us here. Rep. Kendrick Meek of Florida just announced to a sweating throng of Democratic staffers and journalists that the Democrats have secured "14 seats," stretching out the drama and the excitement, presumably so that a certain high-intensity congressman from Illinois can take the party across the finish line when he arrives to address the crowd a few minutes from now. The crowd isn't waiting, weaving drunkenly like New Year's Eve revelers (thanks, Democrats, for the open bar!"

11:28 pm ET

11:23: MSNBC changes House prediction to 234 Dems and 201 GOPers (adding yet another seat for the Dems).

MORE RATHERISH THAN EVER!

Comedy Central’s Dan Rather said HRC “ran away with it like a hobo with a sweet potato pie.”

More Rather, on PA 10: “If you ain’t got the yolk, you can’t emulsify the Hollandaise. … It’s simple, Jon. If you don’t eat your meat, you can’t eat your pudding.”

Rather: “I realized pretty early on that I was just a four dollar gopher in a two dollar pelt.” Stewart: “That’s an insult, right?” Rather: “Yes it is, Jon.”

Denny Hastert, in his victory speech: "I'll have a statement for the press tomorrow on the House of Representatives" (CNN). More Hastert, in his victory speech: "There are a lot of great things we can continue to do." MSNBC's Matthews: "But he just lost the big job" (MSNBC).

11:25 pm ET

CNN and AP call re-election for Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA).

The WaPo has apparently withdrawn its projection of Cardin (D) as the winner in MD SEN (“The Plank”)

At 11:19 pm, MSNBC called House races: Joe Sestak (D) over Curt Weldon (R) in PA 07; Ron Klein (D) over Clay Shaw (R) in FL 22; and that Rep. John Sweeney (R-NY 20) has lost re-election.

At 11:17 pm, FNC says that Nick Lampson (D) has won in TX 22, which FNC said gives Dems control of the House.

Ed Perlmutter (D) was leading Rick O’Donnell (R) 55%-42% in CO 07

Pres. Bush will hold a WH presser at 1 pm tomorrow.

AP: “Schwarzenegger trounces Angelides to claim second term” in CA GOV (AP)

Dem Beau Biden (Joe’s son) was elected Delaware AG over GOPer Ferris Wharton “in the hottest contest in the state,” according to the (AP)

11:24 pm ET

Sen. Evan Bayh: “ “Tonight, the American people sent a strong message to Washington that they are sick of the partisanship, the ideological extremism, and the corruption that has impeded our path to national greatness. The results give us hope for a better direction for the country and a better future for the Democratic Party . Millions of Independents and sensible Republicans put their trust in the Democratic Party, we have a responsibility to govern in a way that validates that trust and puts America back on the path to greatness. The lesson of this election is clear – we won by turning the Red states of the Heartland Blue. Indiana, which has voted for the Republicans in 16 of the last 17 presidential elections, sent three new Democrats to Congress. This is not an accident. Out here in Indiana, we have developed a formula for winning under the most difficult of circumstances. We are fiscally responsible, tough on national security, share the values of middle class families, and value progress over partisanship. If the Democratic Party follows the lead of Indiana and the Heartland and is willing to reach out without selling out our progressive ideals, we can build a true majority and reclaim the White House in 2008.” (e-mail)

11:22 pm ET

FOX calls ex-Rep. Lampson (D) taking over Tom DeLay’s old seat in TX 22…

11:20 pm ET

UNIONS CLAIM CREDIT: AFL-CIO pol. dir. Karen Ackerman e-mails: "Union families are providing two-thirds of the Democratic victory. Based in the exit polls so far, union families are 23 percent of the total vote and are supporting Democratic candidates by 65 percent to 33 percent - a whopping 32-point margin! Nonunion voters (the other 77 percent) are supporting Democrats by 52 percent to 47 percent, a 5-point margin. If you do the math, that means that union households are providing 66 percent of the Democratic margin nationally!"

Townhall's Mary Katharine Ham is reporting the Washington Post is retracting its call for Cardin (D). Michelle Malkin adds: "Just e-mailed the Steele campaign...spokesman Doug Heye reiterating Steele is NOT conceding...just told his supporters to hang in for a long night...also: Absentee ballots are almost 200,000 strong..." http://blogometer.nationaljournal.com/

11:18 pm ET

STILL THE ONE?: Musician John Hall may still be the one when all the votes are counted in his race against Rep. Sue Kelly (R). With84% of precincts reporting, Hall leads Kelly, 51-49%.

Another upset in the works? Rep. Jim Ryun (R-KS 02) is trailing his ’04 opponent, Nancy Boyda 52-44% with 66% of precincts in.

Keep in mind anti-war activist Carol Shea-Porter already scored a surprising upset victory over Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-NH 01).

11:16 pm ET

11:12: MSNBC changes House prediction to 233 Dems and 202 GOPers (adding two more seats for the Dems).

WMAR-TV in Baltimore reports that Gov. Bob Ehrlich (R) is preparing for a legal challenge over absentee ballots. He has not conceded.

CNN's Bash was live from Dem HQ, which features a big-screen TV tuned to CNN in the background. The crowd went wild when they saw themselves on TV.

11:12 pm

NH 01: Rep. Jeb Bradley concedes to Carol Shea-Porter.(Hotline)

MO SEN update: Major cautionary note: only 60 of the 884 precincts in St. Louis Co and St. Louis City have been tabulated. McCaskill won both the county and city in her GOV bid in ’04 – by significant margins. And NOT ONE of KC’s 186 precincts have reported.

At 11:07 pm, FNC called that Rep. John Sweeney (R-NY 20) has lost re-election. FNC also calls that Dick Mountjoy (R) has lost to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI) has won re-election. CNN projects four Dem House pickups at 11:05: Giffords (D) in AZ 08, Klein (D) in FL 22, Hill (D) in IN 09 and Gillibrand (D) in NY 20.

NBC's Russert, on Dems taking back the House: "The president has some big decisions to make. ... It's going to be a very different Washington, DC" (MSNBC).

Heading into today, Dems did not hold any statewide offices in OH. So far, they have won SEN, GOV, Treas and Sec/State; Dems also lead in the AG and Auditor races (Cleveland.com).

Reuters called the Dems take the House at 10:59 pm.

NY GOV’s Eliot Spitzer (D) in his acceptance speech: “As they say on my favorite TV show ‘boo ya!’” (Bloomberg, 11:08)

FNC's Hume, talking to Bill Kristol about his John Madden-style electronic Senate scoreboard: "I wanna see you make some of those cool little yellow squiggly lines. ... They're cool" (FNC).

The “band broke into a gloomy Irish ballad” at Ned Lamont’s (D) gathering in CT (“Empire Zone”)

“Given how “Jetsons”-like all the networks’ sets have become,” Tim Russert’s trusty white board is a “refreshing anachronism” (“The Caucus”).

11:10 pm

At 11:04, CNN calls the House for Dems.

At 11:03, MSNBC calls Kyl (R) in AZ SEN. MSNBC's Matthews: "That's interesting."

At 11 pm, FNC calls that Sen. John Ensign (R-NV) has won re-election, Gabrielle Giffords (D) has defeated Randy Graf (R) in AZ 08, Rep. Clay Shaw (R-FL 22) has lost re-election, and Shuler won NC 11. CNN calls at 11 pm: Feinstein (D) in CA SEN; Akaka (D) in HI SEN; and Murphy (D) in CT 05.

Senate Min. Leader Harry Reid (D-NV): "I've never predicted we were going to be in the majority." On the remaining SEN races: "Some of those look a little weak right now." More Reid: "The message to the American people should be, 'A one-party town doesn't work'" (FNC).

Big Tenn Wait: Nashville affiliate WSMV reports that some voters in E Nashville have been line for as long as 4 hours. Polls are still open as voters remain in line at approx 9:55 central time.

Bloomberg’s Carlson notes that the “heart” of Democrats was in the VA SEN race and in TN (Bloomberg).<.i>

On Bloomberg’s “Business and the Ballot,” Bob Novak: “Republicans are going into a soul searching mood” (Bloomberg).

Bloomberg’s Simon: “The tide is rising, and it looks like a Democratic tide” (Bloomberg, 10:52).

Jon Stewart: “The real question here, can Karl Rove’s tactical genius overcome, once again, let’s say, reality?”

11:05 pm ET

Dems pick up State Senate, Executive Council, possibly both CDs in NH.

11:00 pm ET

10:55: MSNBC predicts House will be comprised of 231 Dems and 204 GOPers.

10:58 pm ET

Michael Steele (R) said on the local Fox affil: “A funny thing happened on the way to the United States Senate. … I’m not giving up this fight just yet, folks.”

John Kerry, on Sestak’s win: “Pennsylvania rejected the low and ugly swiftboating of veterans who risked their lives for this country” (release).

TN SEN UPDATE: While East TN GOP strongholds Hamilton (Chattanooga) and Knox Co have largely reported, Dem bulwarks Davidson (Nashville) and Shelby (Memphis) have still reported less than 50% of their precincts. Hamilton is Corker’s base (he was Mayor of Chattanooga) and Shelby is home to Ford, as well as the the biggest trove of black votes in the state.

At 10:51 pm, FNC projects that Bill Ritter (D) has won in CO GOV, Chet Culver (D) has won in IA GOV, and Mike Beebe (D) has won in AR GOV.

Also, at 10:53 pm, FNC calls that House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL) has won re-election.

Ken Mehlman, speaking in third person about the war in Iraq: "The chairman is not out there saying I understand the nuance of policy" (MSNBC).

ABC has Dems picking up 9 House seats so far.

SC Gov. Mark Sanford (R) won re-election with 54% of the vote against Dem Tommy Moore, per AP.

ABC’s Stephanopoulos: "It looks like Pennsylvania is one of the key stories tonight."

10:57 pm ET

While East TN GOP strongholds Hamilton (Chattanooga) and Knox Co have largely reported, Dem bulwarks Davidson (Nashville) and Shelby (Memphis) have still reported less than 50% of their precincts. Hamilton is Corker’s base (he was Mayor of Chattanooga) and Shelby is home to Ford, as well as the the biggest trove of black votes in the state.

10:56 pm ET

Statement from Michael Davies, Executive Director, DLCC: "Democrats have won the IN House. Success in this is a traditionally red state shows how strong Democrats are at the local level. Winning this chamber also protects a potential target for Republican mid-decade redistricting."

10:54 pm ET

State Rep. Joe Negron (R) just conceded to businessman Tim Mahoney (D) in FL 16 – in the seat formerly held by Mark Foley. He lost 49-48%...

10:53 pm ET

CNN and MSNBC call NC 11 for Heath Shuler (D) over Rep. Charles Taylor (R).

ABC projects KY 02 for Lewis (R) and KY 04 for Davis (R). ABC also calls FL 22 for Klein (D) . Stephanopoulos: "This is a big big pick up for them."

FNC's Cameron, on the possibility of a recount in VA SEN: "As Chuck Schumer said yesterday, 'We are not going to be caught unawares'" (FNC).

Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL): “Where the Democrats have successfully made the case for change, they're going to win” (CNN).

10:52 pm ET

FNC calls PA 10 for Chris Carney (D) over Rep. Don Sherwood (R)

10:50 pm ET

Senate Min. Leader Harry Reid, on VA SEN even though a winner has not been called: "I think there's going to be an automated recount. It's that close" (MSNBC).

ABC’s Raddatz, on the White House: “I sense that it is a very downbeat mood there.”

ABC showed a minute of Sen. Hillary Clinton’s (D-NY) victory speech live. Clinton said: “I just think that democracy is great.” More HRC: "Last week, the vice president said regardless of the outcome, the administration would not change direction. I think the American people have said, 'Not so fast'" (MSNBC).

DCCC chair Rahm Emanuel: “We're half way around, and we haven't got west of the Mississippi” (ABC).

10:46 pm ET

ON THE HOUSE: Rep. Thelma Drake (R-VA 02) narrowly defeats Phil Kellam (D) – 51-49% with 100% of precincts reporting…

Katie Couric called PA 10 “a particularly charming race.” Said Schieffer: “Choking one’s mistress may top hypocrisy as the worst political crime” (CBS).

McCain, asked when he first noticed corruption becoming a problem: "Seven or eight years ago." On why voters are upset with Congress: "They want us to look at their issues. The low approval ratings show that." To MSNBC's Matthews: "Can I just add your brother ran a very fine campaign" (MSNBC).

10:44 pm ET

Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-CT), in his victory speech: "Love you. I'm Joe Lieberman and I approve of this election" (CNN).

Keith Ellison becomes the 1st Muslim in Congress, according to the AP. (AP)

John Kerry leads the Dem victory speeches in MA.

ABC’s Roberts said Dems “haven't picked off any high-growing fruit yet.”

10:43 pm ET

Rep. Thelma Drake (R-VA 02) narrowly defeats Phil Kellam (D) – 51-49% with 100% of precincts reporting…

10:42 pm ET

The closest race in the country is shaping up to be the race between Rep. Deborah Pryce (R) and Franklin Co. Cmsr. Mary Jo Kilroy (D). With 83% of the vote in, Pryce leads Kilroy by 631 votes, with her stronghold of Madison Co. not yet reported. But 9% of the ballots in Franklin Co. have yet to be counted, and Kilroy has led 52-48% there.

10:41 pm ET

CBS’s Schieffer, on flight patterns: “This airplane is landing exactly at the airport we thought it would.”

10:40 pm ET

CBS says Dems have netted 11 House seats so far.

But AP reports that write-in GOPer Sheila Sekula Gibbs has won TX-22 over Dem Nick Lampson. (AP)

Bill Kristol, on GOP leads in GA 08 and GA 12: "It looks like the South may save the Republicans. ... If they hold the Senate, it will be because of Virginia and Tennessee" (FNC).

10:35 pm ET

Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), who said that the election returns were "disappointing": "I really am sad about losing someone like Mike DeWine." More McCain: “We're gonna come right back, we'll learn, we'll listen to the voters. ... We've got to get back to our conservative principles" (FNC).

At 10:19 pm, FNC calls that Charlie Wilson (D) has won in OH 06.

AP called Fenty for D.C. “easily.”

The Denver Post reports waits of more than 2 hours at some of the city’s 55 voting centers. Voters had to be bused to nearly polling centers, paid for by a GOV candidate who the bus driver refused to name. Denver Post

DCCC Chair Rahm Emanuel: "I feel very good about the numbers we're starting to see around Pennsylvania, Connecticut and upstate New York" (CNN).

10:30 pm ET

We’re still waiting on a combined 80 precincts in Loudoun and Prince William in VA SEN; George Allen’s (R) lead is now above 20K thanks to his margin in VA Beach and Hanover Co.

Exit polls in VA show 53% disapprove of Bush's job performance (46% approve), and 60% believe Jim

Webb respects women (29% believes he does not) (MSNBC).

ON THE HOUSE: CNN calls KY 04 for Rep. Geoff Davis (R) over ex-Rep. Ken Lucas (D). Meanwhile, Rep. Jim Ryun (R-KS) is trailing Dem challenger Nancy Boyda 44-54%. GOP Reps. Todd Tiahrt and Jerry Moran were re-elected, while Rep. Dennis Moore is still leading his re-election (AP)

ABC’s Gibson says Martin O’Malley has defeated “Ben Ehrlich.”

As a reporter jots down the drink prices at Eliot Spitzer’s party, an attendee “wonders what the big deal is” with writing down prices. “Hey. This is New York,” he says (Newsday.com).

NBC’s Gregory: “We expect to hear from the President tomorrow.”

ABC's Gibson, on Nancy Johnson: "We're not ready to call it, but she has."

ABC’s Moran, at Dem HQ: "They can feel it. They can taste it. They can smell it. And they're starting to drink it, in fact."

10:27 pm ET

At 10:22 pm, Rep. Nancy Johnson (R) conceded (Hotline sources)

10:26 pm ET

CNN calls KY 04 for Rep. Geoff Davis (R) over ex-Rep. Ken Lucas (D)…

10:25 pm ET

ON THE HOUSE: At 10:14 pm, FNC calls that Zack Space (D) has won in OH 18, the district formally occupied by ex-Rep. Bob Ney (R). At 10:15 pm, FNC called that Rep. Don Sherwood (R-PA 10) has lost re-election. U.S. News’ Barone: "Well, those are two of those scandal seats.” Barone, on Padgett: “She was not the ideal candidate” (FNC).

At 10:11 pm, FNC calls that Rep. Curt Weldon (R-PA 07) has lost re-election. U.S. News’ Barone: “Which district are we talking about?” (FNC).

CBS on House seats: GOPers 155; Dems 144; Dems have netted 9 House seats.

ABC’s Will, noting that moderate GOPers are losing and conservative Dems are winning: "We could be seeing the creation of a more conservative House of Representatives than the one we just had."

Gov. Rick Perry “can become the longest serving governor” in TX history, taking just more than 40% of the vote (Chron.com).

AP reports that gay marriage amendments won in SC, WI and VA.

Altoona Mirror AP headline: “Altoona native elected Florida governor.” Crist lived in Altoona, PA for the first six weeks of his life.(AP)

At 10:08, FNC calls that Rep. Mike Sodrel (R-IN 09) has lost re-election to ex-Rep. Baron Hill (D). FNC's Garrett: "Our viewers should pay attention to this race, because I think it's going to be subject to legal challenge" (FNC).

ABC’s Stephanopoulos, on Rep. Deborah Pryce (R-OH): "This would be a real morale boost for Republicans if she holds on."

Bloomberg reports that Kinky Friedman said “why the hell not?” in response to receiving 10% of the vote in the TX GOV race (Bloomberg, 10:04).

Bloomberg’s Simon, on Rep. Nancy Johnson’s (CT-05) losing: “If there’s evidence of a Democratic wave, that would clearly be one part of it” (Bloomberg, 10:05). More Simon, on overall effects on the Bush admin: “I think there’s gonna be a bloodletting” (Bloomberg, 10:08).

FNC is calling the OH 18 election for atty. Zack Space (D) over state Sen. Joy Padgett (R)…

10:22 pm ET

There are some razor-tight races going on in NY right now. A recap:

NY 20: Rep. John Sweeney (R) narrowly trails atty. Kirsten Gillibrand (D), 51-49% with 20% of precincts reporting.

NY 25: Rep. Jim Walsh (R) narrowly leads Dan Maffei (D), 51-49%, with 33% of precincts reporting.

NY 26: NRCC Chair Tom Reynolds (R) narrowly leads Jack Davis (D) by 179 votes with 18% of precincts reporting.

Meanwhile, Rep. Randy Kuhl (R-NY 29) is leading comfortably over Iraq war vet Eric Massa (D) and Oneida Co. DA

Michael Arcuri holds a 9-point lead over state Sen. Ray Meier (R) in NY 24.

10:20 pm ET

Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL), on going to IA and NH: “I would really shake up everybody if I did that” (Palm Beach Post blog).

ON THE HOUSE:

FNC calls IN 09 for ex-Rep. Baron Hill (D) over Rep. Mike Sodrel (R)…

10:14 pm ET

At 10:04 pm, FNC calls that Rep. Nancy Johnson (R-CT 05) has lost re-election to Chris Murphy (D). FNC's Garrett, on Johnson: "She ran locally, she did all the things in the Republican playbook ... it didn't work." Garrett, on GOPers: "Their only hope now is that the [House] losses are in the low 20s" (FNC).

At 10:03 pm, FNC calls that Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (D-KS) has won re-election.

Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) on what he said to a conceding Katherine Harris (R): “I told her that I had seen her on TV today out in the rain… and that I hoped she had dried off.” (“The Buzz”).

In AZ, charity bingo seems “likely to cruise to easy approval among ballot measures” (Arkansas Times blog).

Phil Angelides daughter, Christina, “wore a blue silkscreened tee-shirt with a faded image of her bespectacled dad's head. It looked like those popular Che Guevara T-shirts,” but without Che (Los Angeles Times blog).

And, reporters deal with elections in different ways. Here’s a sample:

Baltimore Sun’s Rodricks: “I miss Jack Germond” (Baltimore Sun).

New York Observer’s Sicha “I spotted Vernon Jordan! To the bar! Hi-o!” (Observer blog).

Meanwhile, Tim Russert took out his dry-erase board and suddenly all seemed right in the world….

10:13 pm ET

FNC calls IN 09 for ex-Rep. Baron Hill (D) over Rep. Mike Sodrel (R)…

10:12 pm ET

Manchester Union Leader calls NH 02 for Dem Hodes.

10:08 pm ET

With just 8 precincts out, Sen. George Allen (R-VA) is on track to WIN VA Beach, the last significantly locality to report; he’s got just shy of a 7K vote lead in the city.

ABC's Gibson, on Allen's lead in VA SEN: "That will be a deep disappointment to the Democrats."

DCCC Chair Rahm Emanuel, on the GOP: "I'd rather be us than them right now" (MSNBC).

At 10 pm, FNC calls that Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) has won re-election. TN SEN, MO SEN, and VA SEN remain too close to call. FNC's Hume, on VA SEN: "This race is really tight. ... I think we're going to be here really late [because of MO and TN]".

Sen. Jim Talent (R-MO) expects to address supporters at 8pm local time at his hotel party in St. Louis alongside Sen. Kit Bond (Gannett)

ABC's Gibson, on MO SEN: "This is a race that we think is going to be tight right down to the end."

Sen. Santorum (R-PA), conceding: "Just a few minutes ago, I called the new Senator-elect in Pennsylvania, Bob Casey. ... I congratulate him and I mean that wholeheartedly. ... Give him a round of applause." More: Karen, the kids and I just want to thank God" (MSNBC).

CBS’s Bob Schieffer: “We knew this was going to be a bad night for the Republicans, but it may turn out to be their worst nightmare.”

CNN's J. King, on a possible Santorum WH run: "I think you'll see people talk about that. ... Maybe Rick Santorum could work for four years, reabilitate his image and run for governor."

ABC's Gibson: "To be a Republican in Ohio is to be in trouble."

10:08 pm ET

Rep. Charlie Bass (R-NH 02) is looking in serious trouble against ’04 nominee Paul Hodes (D). He’s trailing 53-45% with 63% of precincts reporting.

10:07 pm ET

Blogometer Update: Early netroot reaction to Sen. Joe Lieberman's (D) victory over cable exec Ned Lamont (D) included disbelief anger and anger, but also plenty of appreciation for Lamont's efforts and what his primary victory meant for Dems nationwide. For a more in depth round up, check out the Blogometer. http://blogometer.nationaljournal.com/

10:05 pm ET

At 10, CNN was able to call UT SEN for Hatch (R).

10:03 pm ET

At 9:55, CNN says AZ has passed an English as official language initiative

.

At 9:55 pm, FNC calls Crist (R) in FL GOV. Also, FNC calls that Gov. Mike Rounds (R-SD) has won re-election.

MSNBC calls CT 05 for state Sen. Chris Murphy (D) over Rep. Nancy Johnson (R).

CNN's Greenfield: "What we should mention -- so far not a single Democratic House member has been defeated."

At 9:57 pm, FNC calls that Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-WV 01) has won re-election, despite his "little ethical mini-flap" earlier this year.

Cabs are lined up for a block outside of DNC HQ (ABC).

George Will: "To me it looks fascinatingly normal” (ABC)

Charlie Cook, asked if he still confident of his House predictions: "I'm very comfortable with my 20 number." On his anxiousness: "I'm about to take my shoe off and beat the monitor. Give me numbers. Give me numbers" (MSNBC).

AP reports MO’s 9 U.S. House members are favored to win tonight (AP)

10:02 pm ET

MSNBC is now calling CT 05 for state Sen. Chris Murphy (D) over Rep. Nancy Johnson (R).

10 pm ET

UnionLeader.com has learned that Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Bass is preparing to call Paul Hodes and congratulate the Democrat on his victory. (Union Leader)

9:59 pm ET

Rep. Curt Weldon (R-PA 07) looks like a goner… he trails Joe Sestak (D), 56-44% -- with 44% of precincts reporting, all from his home base of Delaware County.

9:58 pm ET

Meanwhile, AP says TV News has covered tonight’s election “gingerly” after past “botched calls on winning candidates.” (AP)

9:55 pm ET

"With or without the support of the president," Crist (R) called for FL GOV by MSNBC at 9:49 pm.

YOUR SLIP IS SHOWING? CNN’s seems to have called a loss for Lincoln Cheney.

ABC’s Gibson, on Gov.-elect Deval Patrick (D-MA): “A lot of people thing he will be something of a national power in the Democratic Party.”

Bill Kristol, on MD Gov. Bob Ehrlich's (R) loss: "It is striking to me ... how much being in a blue state ihttp://amcblog.nationaljournal.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt.cgi?__mode=view&_type=entry&id=5499&blog_id=20&saved_changes=1#
Bolds hurting Republicans this year." More: "We have had a nationalized election, and the Republicans who are going down are going down in [blue states]" (FNC).

More Kristol, on Buchanan's win in FL 13: "We thought that was one of the ones most at risk" (FNC). U.S. News' Barone, on FL 13: "This was one in trouble. Jennnings was ahead in the polls, but Buchanan seems to have pulled it out" (FNC).

ABC's Roberts, on what we’re seeing: "What we're seeing is a lot of independents ... saying 'We're going Democratic this year.'" More Roberts, on security moms: "This year, they seem to be breaking even ... instead of going for the Republicans as they did two years ago."

MSNBC's Matthews: "It's a long shot, but if this tsunami rolls westward, Jim Pederson's self-financed campaign could win."

ABC's Gibson is sitting with George Stephanopoulos in front of a wall which seems larger than CNN's "Great Wall."

MSNBC's Matthews, on AP writers: "They deserve to make more money."

9:54 pm ET

Looking for the upset of the night? Look in Columbus, OH – where 79-year-old ex-Rep. Bob Shamansky is running even with Rep. Pat Tiberi (R). With 37% of precincts reporting, Tiberi holds a narrow 51-49% lead over Shamansky. Stay tuned…

9:53 pm ET

THE LINCOLN LOGS:
CNN's Schneider on RI SEN: "62% approval of Lincoln Chafee. An amazing result. They like him. They really like him. They just didn't vote for him."

Newsweek's Fineman, on what helped Whitehouse in RI: "He was a homeboy, too" (MSNBC).

9:52 pm ET

Rep. Clay Shaw (R-FL 22) is looking in trouble. With 29% of precincts reporting, he’s trailing state Sen. Ron Klein (D) 52-46% -- and is down in both counties district-wide so far.

9:50 pm ET

It looks like Vern Buchanan spent his money wisely. The self-funding auto dealer spent over $4million of his own money into FL 13 and was down in polls for much of the fall. But with 96% of precincts reporting, he’s narrowly leading moderate banker Christine Jennings (D), 51-49%.

9:48 pm ET

Dems “got a quick start at the top of state government,” winning 12 of 13 GOV races decided so far (Houston Chronicle email alert).

LOVE ME CHICKEN TENDER: FNC's Baier reports, senior WH aides are saying that the mood at the WH is "generally upbeat." Also, the senior WH staff "just ordered chicken tenders," anticipating a long night (FNC).

ON THE HOUSE: At 9:40 pm, FNC calls that Vern Buchanan (R) has won in FL 13 over Christine Jennings (D).

In PA SEN, 57% of Catholic voters supported Casey (D), 42% for Santorum (R) (MSNBC).

AUDITIONING FOR RATHER’06? ABC's Gibson, on NY SEN: "That has all the surprise of a Doris Day movie."

Richmond Mayor/ex-VA Gov. Douglas Wilder said Deval Patrick’s (D) MA GOV win opens the doors for other black pols (AP).

AP

AP’s exit polls show that ¾ of RI voters disapprove of Bush’s job performance, “and a large share of those voters broke for Whitehouse.” Also, voters that identify themselves as “moderates” were leaning toward Whitehouse in “larger numbers” than in Chafee’s last election. Boston.com

Dick Armey: "In the next few weeks, the Republicans are going to have to get together and decide how to show voters they are the conservative party, which the Democrats are pretending to be" (MSNBC)

9:43 pm ET

NHNewslink.com’s Bill Siroty reports: The GOP is in grave danger of losing both the state's congressional seats. While UnionLeader.com is not calling either race at this time, Paul Hodes is in a very strong position against U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley in the 2nd District. Insurgent Carol Shea-Porter has taken Exeter by a thousand votes, lost GOP stronghold Londonderry by fewer than 700 and won Epping, putting her in position for a historic upset over U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley Union Leader

9:42 pm ET

ABC's Gibson, on being sort of amused: "I'm sort of amused that we will have a Whitehouse in the Senate"

9:40 pm ET

At 9:30, mult calls for Whitehouse (D) in RI SEN.

CNN's Greenfield: "Last night at 9:30 p.m. [ex-Pres. Clinton] was campaigning for Whitehouse. That's how nervous Democrats were."

At 9:32 pm, FNC calls that Govs. Jim Doyle (D-WI), Mark Sanford (R-SC), and John Baldacci (D-ME) have won re-election. P.S., Sanford burned his corneas on television lights yesterday (FNC).

FNC also calls that O’Malley has won in MD GOV at 9:33 pm.

Channeling Yoda, ABC's Gibson: "Exciting it will be indeed tonight."

AP reports voting problems in MO, mostly voters not believing their provisional ballots would get counted.
(AP)

ON THE HOUSE: CNN calls IN 02 for Joe Donnelly (D) over Rep. Chris Chocola (R)…

Dick Armey: "It's turning out to be a pretty grim night, huh?" (MSNBC).

9:39 pm ET

FROM THE AFL-CIO BOILER ROOM:

AFT’s Tina Flournoy: “LABOR IS KICKING ASS!!!!” (Hotline sources)
9:38 pm ET

Remember: at a pre-election briefing, NRCC chair Tom Reynolds said that Northup would win – or the GOP would be in for a “long night” if she didn’t. Northup called Yarmuth moments ago to concede. (Hotline sources)
9:36 pm ET

BREAKING: There is an “unprecedented tie” in judge scores for the three contestants on “Dancing With the Stars” (ABC).

9:34 pm ET

From the AFL-CIO boiler room…AFT’s Tina Flournoy: “LABOR IS KICKING ASS!!!!” (Hotline sources)

9:32 pm ET

At 9:27, CNN called Whitehouse (D) for RI SEN. RNC Chair Ken Mehlman: "I think we will hold control of the Senate."

9:30 pm ET

New Senate stands at 45 GOPers, 42 Dems and 2 Indies (MSNBC).

ABC News projects Ben Cardin and Martin O’Malley winning in MD SEN and GOV, respectively (NewsChannel8).

CNN and MSNBC have called KY 03 for Dem John Yarmuth over GOP Rep. Anne Northup, one of the bigger House upsets of the night so far.At 9:25, FNC calls that Reps. Chris Chocola (R-IN 02) and Anne Northup (R-KY 03) have lost re-election.

VA is tight as a tick; still waiting on dozens of precincts in Loudoun and Prince William along with many at VA Beach. Those three localities will decide this race.

House Min. Leader Nancy Pelosi, addressing the audience at the DC Dem HQ: "Are you ready to make history tonight? ... We're on the brink of a Democratic victory" (MSNBC).

Internet hackers have disabled the Albany Times Union’s Web site and blogs. The paper “has broken several stories” about Rep. John Sweeney (R-NY)
(Newsday blog).

No votes were lost, but a PA voter faces felony charges after he "entered an Allentown polling site, signed in and proceeded to smash the screen of one of the electronic voting machines with a metal cat paperweight" this p.m. (Allentown Morning Call)

The controversial DA for the Duke lacrosse case, Mike Nifong, has been re-elected. NBC

CNN has called KY 03 for Dem John Yarmuth over GOP Rep. Anne Northup, one of the bigger House upsets of the night so far.

9:29 pm ET

And at 9:20 pm, FNC calls that Cardin (D) has won MD SEN.

9:28 pm ET

The “Historically Well” Watch: RNC Chair Ken Mehlman, who called the notion of a nat'l trend toward Dems "premature": "There's some evidence in Maryland that Michael Steele did historically well among the African-American community." Mehlman, asked if he's ready to concede the loss of the House or Senate: "Absolutely not. Virginia's very close. Maryland's very close. Missouri looks very close. ... Grab a bag of pretzels, grab a cold one, it's going to be a long evening" (FNC).

9:27 pm ET

Another call for Cardin (D) in MD SEN, from CNN at 9:20.

9:26 pm ET

MSNBC's Corke, reporting from the Steele camp "As you can see, there are still a lot of people unaware of that projection." More: “They’re still hopeful, but perhaps less now.”

At 9:17 pm, MSNBC calls Cardin (D) in MD SEN

9:22 pm ET

Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) will do a victory lap tour of NY tomorrow, kicking off a 7 city tour at 7:45am at a fire station in NYC, then stopping in Bohemia, Johnson City, Cheektowaga, Rochester, Syracuse and Albany (release).

John Spencer (R) has agreed to concede NY SEN at 10:15 p.m.; Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) “will pop onto the podium minutes later, the better to make it comfortably (and presidentially) on the 11 o'clock news” (Newsday.com)

NM Gov. Bill Richardson’s running mate, LG Diane Denish “won re-election but lost her voice” (Freenewmexican.com).

Kerry Healey (R) “supporters are taking food from a table that has melons carved into kissing swans; few are buying drinks from” the cash bar which is selling domestic beer for $5.50 (Boston.com).

NBC's Mitchell: "Joe Lieberman is going to align himself, on some issues, with the Republicans" (MSNBC).

9:20 pm ET

CNN also calls CT SEN for Lieberman (I) at 9:12 pm. At 9:14 pm, FNC calls Lieberman.

CNN's Lothian at Lieberman HQ: "They're not yet ready to say victory. They're still waiting for all their numbers to come in."

At 9:10 pm, FNC calls/confirms that Govs. Napolitano (D-AZ), Richardson (D-NM), Freudenthal (D-WY), Perry (R-TX), and Heineman (R-NE) have won re-election. FNC also calls that Spitzer (D) has won in NY GOV, and Strickland (D) has won in OH GOV.

NBC's Gregory: "We're still on the terrain the White House expected." More: "Karl Rove continues feeding President Bush with information." On Lieberman: "I think he'll still caucus with the Democrats. ... But the White House will continue to look for him" (MSNBC).

Judy Baar Topinka’s IL GOV camp issued a statement saying that it is “irresponsible” for AP to call the race while some voters are “still casting ballots” (release).

AP reports Compt. Carole Keeton Strayhorn (I) is trailing both ex-Rep. Chris Bell (D) and Gov. Rick Perry (R), who has 40% of the vote so far. Kinky Friedman has about 10%. (AP)

Hartford Courant's Rennie on CT 05 and Nancy Johnson: The thirteenth time will prove the undoing of Nancy Johnson Early reporting has her losing traditionally Republican areas of her district by wide margins.

9:16 pm ET

9:10 pm: Lieberman (I) declared winner in CT SEN (MSNBC).

At 9:04 pm, MSNBC declared GOV winners: Granholm (D-MI), Spitzer (D-NY), Richardson (D-NM), Napolitano (D-AZ), Heineman (R-NE), Freudenthal (D-WY), Perdue (R-GA) and Henry (D-OK).

Bill Bennett on CNN: "You will see a draft movement for Rick Santorum to run for president of the United States."

ON THE HOUSE: GOPers’ lone reason to smile at this hour? The results in GA are encouraging for their two challengers. In GA 12, ex-Rep. Max Burns (R) narrowly leads Rep. John Barrow (D), 50.4%-49.6% with 29% of precincts reporting. That said, one of Barrow’s strongest counties – Richmond County (Augusta) – has yet to report.

Meanwhile, ex-Rep. Mac Collins (R) is leading Rep. Jim Marshall (D), 52-48% with 41% of precincts reporting. But like in GA 12, Marshall’s stronghold of Bibb County has yet to report results. Also, it looks like we have the first upset of the night. With 96% of precincts reporting, alt-weekly newspaper publisher John Yarmuth has built a 51-48% lead – one that will be hard for Northup to overcome. It looks like we’ll soon say hello to Congressman Yarmuth (D).

DNC Chair Howard Dean, speaking to FNC's Wallace about his projections for the Senate: "We're being very conservative, if I may say so on a conservative station. ... It could come down to Missouri or Montana." Dean, on whether the '06 elections are a vindication of the 50-state strategy: "There's plenty of credit to go around" (FNC).

Bill Kristol: "It looks very likely that control of the Senate could hinge on Montana" (FNC).

CNN reports that fewer than 200 calls were received by the DoJ’s Civil Rights Division hotline in DC today, down from 1,200 in ’04.

Bloomberg’s Allen on Bob Casey’s win: “That is a regular trouncing.”

Hartford Courant columnist Kevin Rennie tells us: The Lieberman camp has a pretty good cross section of votes in (about 9% of precincts). They are winning New Haven and the Naugatuck Valley in particular. They expect a 6-8% point win.

Conflicted, much? Ken Blackwell’s SoS office has ordered all county election boards to keep election results under wraps until 9pm. A Blackwell spokesperson blamed OH Dems. (AP)

9:15 pm ET

GOPers lone reason to smile at this hour? The results in GA are encouraging for their two challengers. In GA 12, ex-Rep. Max Burns (R) narrowly leads Rep. John Barrow (D), 50.4%-49.6% with 29% of precincts reporting. That said, one of Barrow’s strongest counties – Richmond County (Augusta) – has yet to report.

Meanwhile, ex-Rep. Mac Collins (R) is leading Rep. Jim Marshall (D), 52-48% with 41% of precincts reporting. But like in GA 12, Marshall’s stronghold of Bibb County has yet to report results.

Also, it looks like we have the first upset of the night. With 96% of precincts reporting, alt-weekly newspaper publisher John Yarmuth has built a 51-48% lead – one that will be hard for Northup to overcome. It looks like we’ll soon say hello to Congressman Yarmuth (D).

9:10 pm ET

CALLS OF THE WILD

CNN confirms/calls at 9 pm: Casey (D) in PA (CNN's Blitzer: "That's the second pickup for the Dems"); Clinton (D) in NY SEN; Hutchison (R) in TX SEN; Stabenow (D) in MI SEN; Thomas (R) in WY SEN; Klobuchar (D) in MN SEN; Conrad (D) in ND SEN; Bingaman (D) in NM SEN; Nelson (D) in NE SEN; Kohl (D) in WI SEN; and Carper (D) in DE SEN.

At 9 pm, MSNBC declares SEN winners: Clinton (NY), Klobuchar (MN), Stabenow (MI), Nelson (NE), Conrad (ND) Bingaman (NM), Hutchison (TX), Kohl (WI) and Thomas (WY).

And at 9, FNC calls/confirms re-elections for Nelson (NE), HRC (NY), Conrad (ND), Bingaman (NM), Kohl (WI), Thomas (WY), and Hutchison (TX). And FNC calls Klobuchar in MN SEN.

CAN YOU FEEL IT? Bloomberg’s Woodruff: “The balance of power in Washington is already shifting” (Bloomberg, 9 pm).

CBS’s Couric: “A majority of voters are saying the country is on the wrong track.”

CBS calls 135 GOP House seats to 147 for Dems, still with only one net gain for Dems.

And at 9 pm, CBS calls NJ for Menendez (D) and NY for Clinton (D).

BUT ENOUGH ABOUT ME: MSNBC's Scarborough, to MSNBC's Matthews on why he is not biased as Matthews contends: "I have spent the last two years trying to be critical of my party. If you look at my transcripts, I've bashed the Republicans more than Democrats. ... Look at my transcripts night after night. ... Chris, you may play 'Hardball,' but sometimes you play ball a little to the left" (MSNBC).

Not much changing in MS: AP reports GOPers Sen. Lott, Reps. Roger Wicker and Chip Pickering as winners. Dem Reps. Bennie Thompson and Gene Taylor also expected to win.

9:01 pm ET

At almost 9, NBC projects victory for GA Gov. Sonny Perdue(R) .

CNN's Franken, at DeWine's headquarters: "The Mike DeWine results has followed the script the polls have written."

CNN's Greenfield at 8:58 p.m.: "Hillary, Hillary, Hillary -- her presidential campaign stories will begin in about two hours."

9:00 pm ET

AP reports at 8:33 pm that MD Gov. Bob Ehrlich’s (R) camp is “acknowledging it paid for fliers handed out on Election Day, suggesting Ehrlich and Michael Steele are Democrats.”

Enough voters are “punching Foley” for Joe Negron in FL 16 to keep this race highly competitive. With 35% of precincts reporting, Negron holds a 49-48% lead. But the voter-rich and slightly more Dem Palm Beach County has yet to report results, which could jeopardize Negron’s razor-thin lead.

8:59 pm ET

Sec/State Ken Blackwell (R) conceded OH GOV (release).

At 8:53 pm, a Capital One commercial cut off John Mercurio on Bloomberg mid-sentence.

Ex-House Maj. Leader Dick Armey (R) predicts a Dem pickup of “20, 25 seats” (NPR).

An add to the previous O’Malley item: “There’s a nervousness” at Ehrlich campaign HQ (NewsChannel8).

8:55 pm ET

The Detroit Free Press reports both MI Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D) and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D) are heading “toward decisive victories.”

DSCC chair Chuck Schumer, standing with Harry Reid: “We really care about taking our country back” (FNC)

By 8:50, several calls for Brown (D) in OH SEN.

Schumer: "We are right now biting our nails about Virginia, which is neck and neck. ... We're not breaking out the champagne bottles yet -- it's going to be a long