Democrats are estimated to have won enough seats in the House to break the Republican supermajority in the state legislature.

That would restore significant veto power for incoming Democratic governor Josh Stein.

“Tonight marks a monumental shift in the balance of power in North Carolina and is a testament to DLCC’s work with many partners and allies to challenge unchecked Republican power in the state,” said Heather Williams, chair of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee. “Republicans used their toxic supermajorities to push an extreme agenda — including a blatant abortion ban that was wildly misplaced. That unchecked GOP power ends today with Governor-elect Josh Stein and a new Democratic caucus that can sustain his extreme vetoes. Overcoming Republicans Newly elected Democrats will play a key role in holding Republicans accountable as we work together to finally overcome blatant gerrymandering and other structural barriers to true representation in North Carolina.”

Despite this shift in power, Republicans maintained a supermajority in the state Senate.

“I can say with confidence that Republicans will retain a supermajority in the Senate and hold a strong majority in the House,” said Senate Majority Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham. “I’m grateful for the men and women who put their names forward and run for office. Senate Republicans had an incredible slate of candidates and they will represent their constituents well.”

Berger said the results affirm “voters’ faith in Republicans to lead the state.”

“Our platform of low taxes, job creation, quality education and educational freedom spoke to North Carolinians then. Now voters are returning Republican majorities to the legislature for an eighth consecutive election,” added Berger. “General Assembly Republicans will continue to honor this platform and work tirelessly for all North Carolinians. As we prepare for the next biennium, at the top of our minds is supporting western North Carolina as the recovery process continues.”