BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Rep. David Valadao on Thursday conceded to TJ Cox in the race for California’s 21st Congressional District.
Earlier in the week, elections office results showed Democratic challenger Cox held 50.4 percent of the vote with a 820-vote lead over the Republican incumbent. Valadao held 49.6 percent of the vote.
On Nov. 28, Cox declared victory in the race. At that time, he had a 506-vote lead over Valadao.
After calling Cox to congratulate him on his win, Valadao released the following statement:
“Representing the Central Valley in Congress has been the honor of a lifetime. There are truly no words to express how grateful I am to my supporters, neighbors, and all those who make the Central Valley such an amazing place.
"There is no doubt we are disappointed in the results but, we can take pride in knowing that we brought about real, tangible change. We have reduced taxes for middle class families, made huge strides in our battle for water, reformed the dairy industry for thousands of California farmers, improved access to healthcare for families throughout the Valley, and given our troops the support they deserve.
"Despite the outcome of this election, we must remain deliberate in our efforts to improve our community. There is always work to be completed and I can’t wait to see what else our community can accomplish.
"The Central Valley has always been and will always be my home and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to have served the place I love.”
Shortly after, Cox issued the following statement in which he thanked Valadao for his service in Congress:
“I thanked Congressman Valadao and his family for their service to our country and our communities during the past six years. As the Congressman knows well, it is a great honor to be chosen to represent the people of the 21st District in the House of Representatives. We will work together to ensure a smooth transition for our constituents. I’m looking forward to getting to work on making a positive difference in the lives of our hard-working families.”
