Keisha Lance Bottoms projected to be first Black female governor. Here are other firsts

By Elise Hammond

Several candidates have made history with their projected wins in tonight’s midterms.

Here’s a look:

Keisha Lance Bottoms is projected to become the first Black governor of Georgia, the first female governor of Georgia and the first female Black governor in US history. Bottoms, who also served in the Biden administration, beat out Trump-endorsed Rick Jackson.

Chris Pappas is projected to become the first openly gay male senator in US history with his win in New Hampshire’s Senate race. His win tonight means Democrats will hold on to a critical seat, in a state that Republicans previously saw as one of their best opportunities to flip. Pappas is a four-term congressman from southeastern New Hampshire.

Byron Donalds is projected to become the first Black governor of Florida. He campaigned on tax reforms, regulating data centers and supporting President Donald Trump’s agenda in a state that has become a more consistently Republican state in both state and federal elections.

Melat Kiros is projected to become the first female Black member of Congress from Colorado with her win in the state’s 1st District.

Adam Hamawy is projected to become the first Muslim member of Congress from New Jersey after winning in the 12th Congressional District.

Claire Valdez is projected to become the first female Native American member of Congress from New York. She will win the state’s 7th Congressional District.

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