Blue Dog Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-N.C.) will serve his ninth term in Congress after his Republican opponent conceded Wednesday night following a recount that upheld initial election results. GOP candidate David Rouzer dropped out of the contest, wrapping up one of the last undecided congressional races nearly three weeks after Election Day. McIntyre’s initial lead of 655 declined by only one vote following a three-day recount.
“Now that the recount has been completed and the tally of votes is official, we can move forward satisfied that each vote was counted properly and accurately,” Rouzer said in a statement Wednesday night. “I have called Congressman McIntyre to congratulate him on a hard-fought victory, and I wish him well as he joins a new Congress that will be dealing with very difficult issues facing our country.”
Rouzer came as close as any Republican in 16 years to unseating the conservative Democrat and didn’t rule out a run in 2014, but he said it is too early to speculate.
“To all of those who have encouraged me to run again in 2014, your sincerity means a lot,” he said. “With the Christmas Season upon us, I am setting any thoughts of my political future to the side, refocusing on growing my distributorship and consulting businesses while enjoying the farm and the holidays with family and friends.”
Full Article: Rep. McIntyre wins recount – The Hill’s Ballot Box.