Breaking: Scott Murphy Wins the NY-20 Special
Election

post from Obama HQ on 24 April 2009 04:29:52 PM. © Obama HQ

Three and a half weeks after election night, the special election in New York's 20th Congressional District has finally come to an end, and Democrat Scott Murphy is now set to become the newest member of Congress. His opponent, Jim Tedisco, released a statement just now explaining that, “Earlier today, I called and congratulated Scott Murphy on a hard-fought contest and wished him well as the next Congressman of the 20th Congressional district."

A combination of an extremely close initial count and a delay in processing absentee ballots prevented the race from being called on election night. A recount began shortly after, and over the last few weeks Scott Murphy steadily built up a larger and larger lead. Tedisco's concession today was an acknowledgment that there are no longer enough outstanding ballots for him to close the gap.

DNC Chairman Tim Kaine praised Scott Murphy's victory, calling his win in a heavily Republican leaning district a demonstration of broad support for President Obama's leadership and the President's efforts to turn the economy around and create jobs. In the run-up to Election Day, Scott Murphy had trailed the well known Republican Minority Leader of the New York State Assembly by as much as 21 points.

President Obama formally endorsed Murphy the week prior to election day, and he encouraged thousands of residents in the area to volunteer on behalf of Murphy. Many supporters made phone calls and knocked on doors during the final stretch -- work that proved crucial in a race that was ultimately decided by just a few hundred votes.

In his message to supporters on behalf of Murphy, President Obama reminded everyone that this movement for change has come this far only because supporters stood up and made their voices heard every time it mattered. The election in New York 20 is a reminder of the importance of standing up, and the difference your voice can make.

You can use the comments below to congratulate Scott Murphy, and wish him good luck as the newest member of Congress . . .

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