A moment that echoed the film *Red, White & Royal Blue* unfolded after Chris Pappas was elected to the US Senate, making him the first openly gay man to hold the position. The Democratic Congressman won the New Hampshire Senate seat, defeating Republican John Sununu. During his victory speech, Pappas thanked his husband, Vann Bentley, and said that love and truth had prevailed. Pappas, 46, focused his campaign on affordability, healthcare and challenging the policies of the Donald Trump administration. He entered politics more than two decades ago and was elected to the US Congress in 2018. His Senate victory marks a milestone in his political career. The result came as Democrats regained control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives in the US midterm elections. With control of both chambers, Democrats will have greater power to block Trump's appointments, challenge his policies and scrutinise his administration.