Democrats strengthen legislative majorities across Maine Illinois and Vermont

Democrats made legislative gains across Maine, Illinois, Vermont and Ulster County, extending or strengthening their control in several state and local bodies. In Maine, Democrats retained their legislative majority and won several seats previously held by Republicans, while the incoming governor and party leaders called for bipartisan cooperation; Republican leaders expressed doubt that it would be forthcoming. Illinois Democrats expanded their supermajorities in both chambers, and Vermont Democrats gained veto-proof majorities even as Republican Gov. Phil Scott remains in office. In Ulster County, Democrats appeared poised to pick up another seat, potentially widening their majority. How Democrats use their strengthened positions—and whether they can work across party lines—remains uncertain.