GOP's Budd wins N.C. Senate race, keeps seat for Republicans in close contest to control chamber

North Carolina Republican Rep. Ted Budd won is Senate bid Tuesday night over Democrat rival Cheri Beasley.

The Associated Press called the race with 95% of precincts counted. 

Budd had 50.9% of the vote, compared to 46.9% for Beasley, when the race was called at about 11:15 p.m. 

Burr had been one of several Senate Republicans to vote to impeach former President Donald Trump. Budd has been an ally of the 45th president.

Though the race was considered a toss up, Budd surged in late, prompting election forecaster RealClearPolitics to move to the race to the Republican column.

His 4.0% win was slightly below his polling average, which handed him a 6.2% lead.