NEWARK — Newark Mayor Cory Booker is the next U.S. senator from New Jersey.

The Associated Press has projected that Booker, a Democrat, will prevail over Republican Steve Lonegan, the former mayor of Bogota.

When the results are certified, Booker, 44, will become the first African-American ever elected to statewide office in New Jersey.

Booker was heavily favored to win the race from the beginning, but Lonegan gained in the polls late in the race. As the polls tightened, Booker became more aggressive and started highlighted Lonegan’s stridently conservative remarks, hoping they’d alienate New Jersey’s traditionally Democratic voters.

Booker also highlighted Lonegan’s support for the government shutdown, which polls showed hurt Republicans.

Follow vote totals here.

Cory Booker defeats Steve Lonegan in race for US Senate 14 Gallery: Cory Booker defeats Steve Lonegan in race for US Senate

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