"The three competitive congressional races in Virginia more or less unfolded as people expected," said Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, a professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington. "The two Northern Virginia districts were more democratic in their design than the 2nd District in Hampton Roads, and the Republicans picked up one. It wasn't a red wave, not in Virginia, not nationally. But even an incremental change in a 50/50 country can split the balance of power."

What Democrats & Republicans are saying about the results of 3 key Va. congressional races (WJLA)

Stephen J. Farnsworth, a political scientist at the University of Mary Washington, said that the 9th District has become increasingly Republican in recent years due to redistricting and socio-economic changes, making it increasingly difficult for a Democratic challenger to be successful.

“Congressman Griffith was a strong favorite going into this contest, and the results on Tuesday demonstrated that the smart money knew this outcome a while ago,” Farnsworth said, referring to the Republican’s significant financial advantage. 

Morgan Griffith wins the 9th District for the sixth time (Cardinal News)

“Success in politics is often about geography, and the 6th District as redrawn for this election cycle gives the Republican nominee an immense home court advantage,” said Stephen Farnsworth, a political scientist at the University of Mary Washington. “Cline needed to stay out of trouble to be reelected – mission accomplished.”

Ben Cline wins 6th District for third time (Cardinal News)

"There are two I would pick. In the Senate, I really think that the New Hampshire race is the key to watch. I think that is going to give an early indication in the eastern time zone about whether or not there is going to be a red wave tonight. When you are looking at the House, it is actually a surburban district here in the Washington area in Northern Virginia's 7th district which puts Abigale Spanberger in a very different district than she had previously represented," said Stephen Farnsworth, professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington.

U.S. Midterm Elections (CTV News)

Professor Stephen Farnsworth at the University of Mary Washington says these elections will have long-lasting consequences. "The question about how dense housing can be allowed in communities can really have a huge impact on whether or not there is affordable housing for the next generation," Farnsworth says. "But of course it also creates anxieties for people who have invested in a community as it exists now. They might be worried about what it's going to look like in the future."

The role of affordable housing on this year’s election (WVTF)