Republicans still have large legislative majorities in Iowa, but a Democrat’s apparent win in a solidly conservative area buoyed that party at a moment of uncertainty.

Democrat Mike Zimmer has defeated Republican Kate Whittington in the special election for Senate District 35, which was vacated by Chris Cournoyer.

A Democratic candidate has won the state senate seat previously held by Republican Chris Cournoyer, who resigned in December to serve as lieutenant governor. State Senate District 35 covers all of Clinton County and parts of Jackson and Scott Counties.