Murphy wins congressional seat after Tedisco concedes

HARLEM VALLEY — Republican Jim Tedisco conceded in the election race for the 20th Congressional District to Democrat Scott Murphy last Friday, April 24.

Although the vote tally has yet to be finalized, Murphy’s lead is estimated to be 401 votes. His lead has gradually increased over the past two weeks as absentee ballots have continued to come in. Unofficially, Murphy stands at 80,368 votes to Tedisco’s 79,967.

“I am honored and humbled to be going to Washington. I can’t wait to get to work,� Murphy, a venture capitalist from Glens Falls, said in a statement. “I look forward to rolling up my sleeves in Washington to bring jobs, opportunity and prosperity back to upstate.�

The district was previously represented by Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand, who stepped down in January after becoming a United States senator, replacing Hillary Rodham Clinton when she became secretary of state.

“This was a closely contested election that perhaps lasted a little longer than anyone may have expected or wanted,â€� Tedisco, a  former state assemblyman from Glenville, said in a statement. He resigned from his Assembly seat during the election count in anticipation of a congressional win.

“Ultimately, it became clear that the numbers were not going our way, and that the time had come to step aside and ensure that the next congressman be seated as quickly as possible,� Tedisco added.

State Assemblyman Marc Molinaro congratulated Murphy in a press release distributed Friday.

“I look forward to working with Mr. Murphy to enhance our economy, reduce our cost of living, foster sustainable job growth, protect our environment and improve our quality of life,� he stated.

Gov. David Paterson said he spoke to Murphy shortly after Tedisco conceded.

“I am pleased that Congressman Murphy will join the team of elected officials in New York state who are working together to address our fiscal crisis,� he said in a press release. “I look forward to partnering with him as we continue to improve the lives of all New Yorkers.�