Donald Trump Suffers Major Setback as Democrats Win Key US Races

Democrats secured significant victories in the 2025 US governorship elections on November 4, dealing a political blow to President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. In Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger was projected to win the governorship, becoming the state’s first female governor by defeating Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. Spanberger, a former congresswoman and CIA officer, captured about 57.5% of the vote compared to Earle-Sears’ 42.3%, contributing to a Democratic sweep of statewide offices including attorney general and lieutenant governor. These wins mark a pivotal moment ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and reflect voter concern over the current national economy and government performance.

In New Jersey, Democratic U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill succeeded retiring Governor Phil Murphy by winning against Republican Jack Ciattarelli, a candidate backed by Donald Trump. Sherrill’s victory continues Democratic control of New Jersey’s governorship.

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New York City also made history by electing Zohran Mamdani as mayor, its first Muslim and South Asian mayor, as well as the youngest in over a century. Mamdani, a democratic socialist and state assemblymember, defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent after losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani. Mamdani’s campaign included progressive policies such as free bus rides, rent stabilization, universal childcare, and increased minimum wage, with a commitment to oppose Trump’s administration politically.

These election outcomes demonstrate a clear rebuke of Trump-backed Republican candidates in key states and cities, highlighting growing Democratic momentum and voter dissatisfaction with the current administration’s direction.