10th Senate District Republican candidate Greg Vital said Tuesday the "election is over" and he is not requesting a recount of his close race with Todd Gardenhire.
At the latest count, Mr. Gardenhire was ahead by 39 votes.
Mr. Vital said, "Although it was a very close race, the election is over. The ballots are in and hopefully all the votes have been counted accurately. There is no need for a recount.
It has come down to two-tenths of one percent difference out of 16,000 votes cast.
"I’d like to thank my wife, Carlene, who has been involved and supportive throughout this entire process. I’d also like to thank my family, my staff, all my supporters, and volunteers who have campaigned tirelessly for over four months.
"I decided to run for state Senate with the purest of intentions, which was to continue my track record of public service to my community. We have met hundreds of incredible people along the way and that is a gift I will never forget. I am deeply humbled by the support of our shared vision for the future of Bradley and Hamilton Counties.
"I have been a proud Republican and conservative since I started voting in the mid-1970s. I believe in good government and free enterprise. My reputation in this town has been honorable on all levels in the business community and statewide, as reflected by the broad-based financial support and bipartisan interest in my campaign.
"My goal in this race was to convince voters of my abilities with a positive campaign. Never did I attack my opponent or the media. I don’t believe negative tactics, character assassination, or violating journalistic ethics are respectable practices under any circumstances.
"I look forward to getting back to my family and my business in the private sector, creating jobs, and volunteering with non-profit organizations, like I have for almost 30 years. Thank you again to everyone who believed the truth about me. My prayers are with the people of District 10."