US. Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., talks with Missouri Attorney General and likely Republican challenger Josh Hawley during the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, Mo., Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Update: As of Wednesday morning, with 100% of precincts reporting, Hawley has won 51.5% of the vote, with McCaskill taking 45.5%.

It’s been one of the tightest, most contested races for the U.S. Senate.  And now, Missouri has its answer: Its Attorney General will soon be its newest Senator.

The tough battle between Josh Hawley and incumbent Democratic Senator Claire McCaskill has finally been called with Hawley taking roughly 53% of the vote.

In the closing days of the campaign, Hawley received a boost from President Trump, who made repeated visits to Missouri to stump for him, including his wrap up rally in Cape Girardeau last night.

With Hawley’s win, the GOP is guaranteed a pick up of another seat in the Senate, even while they lose control of the House. The 38-year-old Hawley has every right to be proud of his win. McCaskill’s a skilled politician and showing her the door was no small feat. So congratulations to the Hawley camp on a big win!