Democratic state Sen. Ralph Northam wins Virginia lieutenant governor race

RICHMOND, Va. - Democratic state Sen. Ralph Northam defeated Republican E.W. Jackson in a race sharply defined by social issues.

Northam easily beat Jackson on Tuesday following a campaign that centered on Northam's defense of abortion rights and Jackson's Christian-based anti-abortion platform. Jackson also opposes gay marriage, while Northam supports it.

The winner succeeds Republican Bill Bolling. A Democrat hasn't occupied the office since U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine was lieutenant governor in 2006.

The lieutenant governor presides over the state Senate and casts a ballot on tie votes.