Sen. Maria Sachs Holds off Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff

In the clash of state Senate incumbents, Sen. Maria Sachs, D-Boca Raton, held off Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff, R-Fort Lauderdale,

Sachs took nearly 53 percent of the vote.

Senate President-designate Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, who had predicted Bogdanoff would prevail in the Democratic-leaning district, said she ran a "hard-fought campaign."

"The hard work and vigor she displayed on the campaign trail comes second only to the dedication with which she has approached her role in the Senate," Gaetz stated in a release.

"I am proud that our Republican Caucus strongly supported Senator Bogdanoff and that many members of our caucus raised resources to help her and came to South Florida to walk door-to-door for her. She will be truly missed in the Senate.I fully expect Ellyn Bogdanoff to resume her service to the people of Southeast Florida in future years. I congratulate Senator Maria Sachs on her victory and look forward to working across the aisle with her in the days ahead.