Susan Collins claims victory in Maine Senate race, Sara Gideon concedes

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, claimed victory over Democrat Sara Gideon on Wednesday afternoon.

"I just received a very gracious call from Sara Gideon conceding the race," Collins told supporters in Bangor, Maine.

"I feel that this is an affirmation of the work that I'm doing in Washington to fight hard every day for the people of Maine," she continued. "Finally, let me say that this is an honor that is historical as well. I am the first person since Maine directly elected its senators to win a fifth term."

The Fox News Decision Desk projected Collins as the winner on Wednesday, which could keep the balance of power in the Senate in Republicans' favor.

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