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Rick Scott declares victory over incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson

Despite Rick Scott declaring victory, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson has yet to concede.

Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Florida Governor Rick Scott and his wife, Ann Scott, (L) take to the stage during his election night party at the LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort on November 06, 2018 in Naples, Florida.

NAPLES, Fla. -- Florida Gov. Rick Scott declares victory in a hard-fought campaign against Democratic incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson.

Despite the Republican governor saying he's looking forward to working to help Floridians in Washington, D.C., Nelson has yet to concede the race in a speech to supporters. Instead, campaign staff said a full statement would be coming Wednesday morning to thank people who rallied for him.

As of 1 a.m., Scott leads Nelson by some 55,000 votes with just under 100 percent precincts reporting.

More: Complete Florida 2018 midterm election results

Related: Ron DeSantis elected Florida governor, defeating Andrew Gillum

Republicans are projected to hold their U.S. Senate majority.

More: Ted Cruz defeats Beto O'Rourke for U.S. Senate seat in Texas

Our victory tonight is due to the hard work of so many, more than I could ever name. But I do want to thank my best friend Ann. She’s been an amazing First Lady–and when I had to to get off the trail to respond To Michael, she jumped in for me. We’re a great team–I love you, Ann!
— Rick Scott (@ScottforFlorida) November 7, 2018

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