Marco Rubio can now add another line to his resume – two term United States Senator.
The West Miami native was re-elected Tuesday, defeating U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy. Rubio led the race following August primary elections, with Murphy gaining points toward the end of the race but not being able to overtake the incumbent.
"Florida is America and it's such an honor to be able to represent this extraordinary state," Rubio said at a victory rally Tuesday night.
The two Senate candidates differed starkly on a number of issues — including guns, health care, foreign policy, economic issues and abortion. Each sought to leverage voter discontent with both the GOP and Democratic nominees.
"We were expecting and hoping for a different result this evening," Murphy told a crowd of supporters Tuesday night.
Murphy said he spoke to Rubio and wished him luck.
"Sen. Rubio and I obviously have our differences, you all saw the debates, but at this point it's important that we come together and do what's best for Florida," Murphy said.
Rubio initially said he would not seek re-election, but decided to run after dropping out of the race for President following his loss in the Florida primary.
