Christie Re-Elected In NJ Race

Update 10:20 p.m. EST: Christie delivered his victory speech in Asbury Park, thanking New Jerseyans and saying, "I am one of you."

The governor invoked the "Spirit of Sandy," the way the state came together to overcome natural disaster a year ago.

In a possible reference to future national ambitions, he said New Jersey's record of bipartisan cooperation should be a model for Washington, drawing cheers.

"A dispirited America ... angry with dysfunctional government," looks to the Garden State for inspiration, he said.

With 70 percent of precincts reporting, Christie is leading Buono 60 to 38.4 percent.

Update 9:10 p.m. EST: With 23 percent of precincts reporting, Christie is leading Buono 57.5 to 41 percent.

Update 9 p.m. EST: The leaders of the Republican Governors Association said Christie's win proves Republicans can win in "every state."

"Governor Chris Christie’s overwhelming victory proves that voters are looking for confident and competent leadership," Republican Governors Association Chairman Bobby Jindal of Louisiana and Vice Chairman Scott Walker of Wisconsin in a joint statement. "His victory also proves that Republicans can compete and win in every state. His tenure as chief executive has placed a premium on achieving results over scoring political points. We are proud to congratulate Governor Christie on being rewarded by the voters with a much-deserved second term and look forward to his continued hard work on behalf of the people of New Jersey."

Update 8:45 p.m. EST: Democrat Barbara Buono has conceded the race to Gov. Chris Christie.

Original story:

Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey has been re-elected, CNN and the Associated Press declared the minute the polls closed at 8 p.m. EST.

In Virginia, the governor’s race between Republican Ken Cuccinelli and Democrat Terry McAuliffe remained to close to call, networks said.

According to CNN’s exit polls, Christie won 56 percent of women, 45 percent of Hispanics, and 21 percent of black voters in his triumph over Democrat Barbara Buono, a state senator.

In actual votes, Christie was taking 70 percent, with 1 percent of precincts counted.