Reichert wins re-election to Congress

Rep. Dave Reichert has retained his seat in the 8th Congressional District. His opponent, Democrat Darcy Burner, conceded the election Friday night.

“It is likely at this point that Congressman Reichert has won re-election, and while we will certainly ensure that every valid vote is counted, we accept the decision of the voters,” Burner said in a statement.

As of 7:15 p.m. Friday, Reichert had 138,537 votes, or 51.47 percent of the vote. Burner had 130,606 votes, or 48.53 percent.

The two had faced each other two years ago.

Reichert’s spokesperson said that the former King County Sheriff wasn’t declaring victory.

Burner’s statement was spurred by an Associated Press analysis that said Reichert’s lead was too much for Burner to overcome.

Reicher had 50.26 percent of the vote in King County to Burner’s 49.61.

“I would like to thank the thousands of people who put so much time and effort into the campaign, as well as the countless thousands more who went beyond voting to actively participate in our democratic process this year,” Burner said. “The election of Barack Obama as our new president will ensure that the change to the direction of our country called for in this campaign is realized in the new year.”