Only 187 votes separated the victor from the loser in the race for the 13th Congressional District in California in the last seat to be called in the 2024 election.
Democrat Adam Gray edged ahead of incumbent Republican Rep. John Duarte to take his seat in Congress, per the Associated Press.
The win for the Democrat kept the Republicans in the majority in the House with 220 seats compared to the 215 held by Democrats, according to a report on Fox News.
Gray posted about his win on X, formerly Twitter.
“I’m honored to become the Congressman-elect for California’s 13th Congressional District. The final results confirm this district is ready for independent and accountable leadership that always puts the Valley’s people ahead of partisan politics,” he posted. “But the work has just begun.”
“In Washington, I’ll work everyday to deliver the resources that the Valley needs: clean water, better educational opportunities, stronger infrastructure, and more good-paying jobs,” Gray continued. “And you can count on me to build bipartisan relationships to accomplish these goals.”
This was the ninth race to go from Republican to Democrat this election. Repuclicans gained eight seats.
Three seats will become vacant as President-elect Donald Trump has tapped Republican Reps. Elise Stefanik (N.Y.), Michael Waltz (Fla.) and Matt Gaetz (Fla.) – for spots in his administration.
Gratz withdrew his name from consideration and previously resigned his spot in Congress.
Gray is a former California state legislator and represented the 21st Assembly District from 2012 to 2022.
His platform includes the plight of farmers, including water shortage. He also favors renewable energy solutions.
Duarte is a businessman and farmer. He stumped on issues such as inflation, crime and agricultural issues during his campaign.
