King victorious in 2nd C.D.

Turnout was heavier than expected, despite intermittent rain, in an election both Republicans and Democrats had called a referendum on the policies of President Donald Trump.

In one of the most closely watched contests, incumbent Republican Rep. Peter King retained his seat in the 2nd Congressional District against an insurgency led by Democrat Liuba Grechen Shirley. After a seesaw battle throughout the evening, King finally surged ahead to win by a decisive 52 to 46 percent. It was the most serious challenge King had faced in at least 20 years.

“I feel great,” King said. “It was a great victory. Solid victory … I’m just glad it held all together.” King said he wanted to find a way to reach out to Democrats in Washington “because they are going to control the House [of Representatives].”

In the 8th Senate District, Democratic incumbent John Brooks held off a strong challenge by Massapequa Park Mayor Jeff Pravato and surged to a comfortable 53-44 percent victory.

In the evening’s only upset, first-time candidate Democrat Kevin Thomas upset 15-term Republican incumbent Kemp Hannon in the 6th Senate District by a two-point margin.