Key House and Senate races to watch on Election Day

PBS NewsHour reported that Election Day marks the culmination of months of campaign efforts, with results expected late into the night. They highlighted 89 House races and 15 Senate races rated as competitive by The Cook Political Report.

Among the key contests, Kentucky's 6th Congressional District is notable. President Donald Trump won this district by 15 points in 2024, but recent ratings have shifted it to a toss-up, making early results there an important indicator for Democrats' chances in red areas, according to PBS NewsHour.

Florida's races will also be closely watched. The state efficiently counts ballots, with 90 percent of votes typically tallied shortly after polls close at 8 p.m. EST. Republicans redrew districts aiming to flip Democratic seats, and early returns will reveal if this strategy succeeded or backfired, PBS NewsHour noted.

On the Senate side, PBS NewsHour emphasized watching results from South Carolina and Ohio, where Republicans defend seats in states won twice by Trump. They also mentioned Maine's race but viewed it as less of an early indicator due to unique dynamics involving incumbent Senator Susan Collins.

The Hill provided an overview of Election Day coverage, mentioning pivotal races and the timing of results, but did not specify particular contests to watch.

What we're watching: How early results from key districts and states will shape the narrative of the midterm elections as votes are counted.