Tina Kotek wins reelection as Oregon governor

Why it matters: Despite low approval ratings and growing frustrations over housing, homelessness and the economy, Oregon voters gave Kotek another four years to deliver on the promises that first got her elected in 2022.

What they're saying: "I am proud to stand here as your next governor," Kotek said at a downtown Portland campaign party about an hour after polls closed. "We're going to work hard to continue to make progress for the state we love."

• "We ran a race that was hopeful and optimistic and visionary," Drazan said at a campaign event in Hillsboro, though she did not concede.

Catch up quick: Kotek narrowly defeated Drazan four years ago — when independent candidate Betsy Johnson snagged nearly 9% of the vote — continuing Democrats' nearly 40-year hold on Oregon's governor's office.

• This year's race was equally competitive, with polls showing the two in a dead heat in the weeks leading up to Election Day.

What's next: Kotek pledged to expand affordable housing production, protect health care access and establish a Department of Commerce to revitalize Oregon's sluggish economy, as well as attract new investment and jobs.