Former Ohio Attorney General Mike Dewine secured a position in the Governor’s office during Tuesday night’s election, besting Democrat Richard Cordray in one of the most nationally scrutinized gubernatorial races.

DeWine, who hails from Springfield,  has been in the public political eye for decades. With a wife and eight children, he has become attractive to the common man, and is seen as an advocate for families.

DeWine narrowly edged out Cordray in what was widely regarded as a toss up battle. Polling results since the May primary showed the two within single digits of one another, with Cordray even carrying a slight lead into election night.

The election marks Ohio’s second consecutive Republican governor, following the end of incumbent John Kasich’s second term. These victory’s have cemented the GOP as a powerhouse in Ohio, a state which Donald Trump won by over 8 percent. This recent red-wave has even led many to reconsider, at least temporarily, Ohio’s historic status as a battleground state.

DeWine, who became Attorney General of Ohio in 2010, has emphasized the importance of helping children in fragmented families, protecting citizens from drug and crime and helping rape victims experience justice in his campaign.

During his term, DeWine plans to tackle the opioid epidemic that is sweeping through Ohio. He has proposed a 12-point plan that will expand drug-forces and drastically improve treatments.

Although it is possible that the “Affordable Care Act” will be repealed by President Trump in the future, DeWine had additionally vowed to protect Americans with pre-existing conditions.

“I want to thank the people of Ohio for the trust and confidence they’ve placed in us,” DeWine said after the win. “Tonight’s victory is about moving Ohio forward. We are energized by the support you’ve show us, and we will not let you down!”

In other political news, Republican Dave Yost defeated Democrat Steve Dettelbach for Attorney General; Republican Frank LaRose triumphed over Democrat Kathleen Clyde for Secretary of State; Republican Robert Sprague won the race for treasurer and Republican Keith Forber won for Auditor.

Additionally, Democrat Sherrod Brown defeated Republican Jim Renacci for the senate and the Democrats re-claimed the House of Representatives for at least the next two years.