NJ gets bluer: Democrats pick up 3 seats, Menendez holds on

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Democratic-leaning New Jersey has turned a deeper shade of blue.

Tuesday's election led Democrats to pick up at least three House seats from Republican control. Incumbent Sen. Bob Menendez also fended off a well-funded GOP challenger.

The Democratic pickups mean the party will control at least 10 of the state's 12 House districts and both Senate seats. Democrats also have a majority in the state Legislature and hold the governorship -- both of which were not on the ballot Tuesday.

Republican incumbent Rep. Leonard Lance in New Jersey's 7th District was ousted by Tom Malinowski, a former State Department official under Barack Obama.

MORE: 2018 Election results for Pennsylvania, New Jersey | New Jersey's Bob Menendez wins 3rd Senate term

Democrat Mikie Sherrill defeated Assemblyman Jay Webber in the open 11th District.

State Sen. Jeff Van Drew defeated his staunchly pro-Donald Trump rival Seth Grossman the 1st District.