Meet the history-makers of the 120th Congress

Democrat Annie Andrews, here addressing supporters at her election night party in Charleston, S.C., on Tuesday, is the first woman elected to the Senate from South Carolina. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call) By Andrew Menezes Posted November 4, 2026 at 7:50pm, Updated November 11, 2026 at 7:55pm The incoming freshman class of the 120th Congress includes several people who scored historic wins in their states and the nation at large. Among them were women breaking glass ceilings in the Senate and trailblazers for Native American representation. Beyond Washington, a handful of nominees pulled off milestone victories in gubernatorial elections, including four Black candidates. Congress is also poised to witness history next year with New York Democrat Hakeem Jeffries expected to become the first Black speaker. Here are some of the candidates who made history on election night, both in Congress and in the governor’s mansions: Michael Alfonso, R-Wis.

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