Republican Casey Lucius conceded the race to represent the Central Coast in Congress on Tuesday night, sharing a message thanking her supporters and wishing Jimmy Panetta well in the seat that his father, Leon Panetta, once held. Panetta had nearly 69 percent of the vote as of 10:04 p.m., according to the California Secretary of State's office. He had earned nearly 59 percent of the vote in San Benito County when the second round of results were released before 10 p.m.
Here is Lucius' message:
"After more than a year and a half of campaigning for Congress, the election has come to a close. This was an adventure that I will never forget. I met countless people throughout the district over the last 18 months, I heard incredible stories that I will keep with me forever, and I made more friends than could have ever imagined. I want to congratulate Jimmy Panetta on winning this race. I will do all I can to support him as our representative."
"Thank you to all my supporters throughout the Central Coast. I am truly grateful that I had the opportunity to run for office. I could not have done this without the support of my husband and all of my family and friends."