Spanberger Declares Victory, but Freitas Refuses to Concede

Republican challenger says he’ll wait until canvassing finishes on Friday to make a decision.

RICHMOND-A candidate declared victory, but the most expensive race in this year’s Virginia election continues. Democratic Rep. Abigail Spanberger currently leads in US House District 7 and issued a statement this evening celebrating her win. However, she leads by just over one percentage point. Local registrars still have to count 4% of the overall ballots. 

Spanberger, a former CIA officer, currently leads Republican Nick Freitas 50.49% to 49.35%. That translates into a lead of 5,134 ballots. Reuters and other organizations have yet to call the race, due to the small lead. Freitas also had not issued a concession speech as of Wednesday night. 

“Tonight, the Seventh District affirmed its commitment to leadership in Congress that puts Central Virginia first, works for everyone and focuses on expanding opportunity for the next generation of Virginians,” Spanberger said in her victory speech. “Serving the Seventh District in Congress has been my honor and I look forward to continuing our work to strengthen and protect our communities.”  

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Freitas, meanwhile, pointed out Wednesday night that 4% of ballots means hundreds of thousands still out. In a statement to media and posted on social accounts, he said there’s no plan to concede. 

“I want to thank all of my supporters and volunteers for their tireless work during this campaign season,” Freitas wrote. “Out of respect for them, the importance of this race and the hundreds of thousands of votes that have yet to be canvassed in the district, our campaign will be waiting until the canvass officially concludes on Friday, at which time we will be making an appropriate statement.” 

Brian Carlton is Dogwood’s managing editor. He can be reached at [email protected].