Tammy Baldwin

Tammy Baldwin Credit: (Getty Images)

Wisconsin Democratic Rep. Tammy Baldwin made history on Tuesday by becoming the first openly gay U.S. Senator, defeating former governor Tommy Thompson in the most expensive Senate race in state history.

The two candidates raised at least $65 million.

The outcome is another blow to Republicans, who needed to make a net gain of four seats to take a majority in the Senate.

Baldwin assumes the seat of retiring Democrat Herb Kohl, who is finishing his fourth term in the Senate. The 50-year-old Baldwin, first elected to Congress in 1998, also becomes the first woman senator from Wisconsin with her victory Tuesday.

Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Teen pleads guilty to fatal stabbing at house party ... Jets-Pats preview Credit: Newsday

Tax hike in town's proposed budget ... Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Attacks ads targeting Suozzi paused ... Out East: McCall Wines

Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Teen pleads guilty to fatal stabbing at house party ... Jets-Pats preview Credit: Newsday

Tax hike in town's proposed budget ... Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Attacks ads targeting Suozzi paused ... Out East: McCall Wines

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