Governor, Senate races up for grabs as polls close in California

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The polls have closed in California, with races for governor and U.S. Senate and a fight over the legalization of marijuana among the races and issues to be settled by state voters.

Californians will elect a successor to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger following the most expensive governor’s race in state history. Republican Meg Whitman spent more than $141.5 million of her own money in her bid to defeat Democrat Jerry Brown.

Brown served two terms as governor, from 1975 to 1983, and would be the oldest person ever elected governor if he wins tonight. Whitman is vying to become the first female governor in state history.

U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer is in a tight race with Republican Carly Fiorina, the former chief executive of Hewlett Packard. Boxer is seeking her fourth Seante term against Fiorina, who has never held elected office.

Californians are also voting on nine measures on the November ballot, including Prop. 19, a measure that would legalize the sale and use of marijuana. You can see results from all of the state’s races on the secretary of state’s website.

Check PolitiCal throughout the night for updates on all of the key races.

RELATED:

Exit polls show Prop. 19 isn’t driving turnout

Prop. 19 supporters say win or lose, they sparked a debate

Schwarzenegger won’t say if he voted for Whitman or Brown

-- Anthony York