November 4, 2020 4:10 a.m.

Democratic incumbents U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and 4th District Congressman Peter DeFazio both won re-election on Tuesday.

DeFazio fought off a strong challenge from former Roseburg National Guardsman Alek Skarlatos to keep his seat. The margin of victory was 52 percent to 46 percent. Late Tuesday, DeFazio said southwest Oregon “…spoke clearly tonight in favor of a system that works for the people, not wealthy special interests”. Skarlatos told supporters, “This race would have never come this close without your support and I am thankful for each and every one of you”. In Douglas County, Skarlatos beat DeFazio 65 percent to 32 percent.

Statewide Merkley won over Jo Rae Perkins 58 percent to 39 percent. Douglas County voters selected Perkins by a margin of 64 percent to 33 percent.