Republican Flips Seat in Special California House Election After Democrat Concedes

Republican Flips Seat in Special California House Election After Democrat Concedes
Mike Garcia, who won a special U.S. House election, in a campaign file photo. Cynthia Smalley/Mike Garcia For Congress via AP
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Democrat Christy Smith has conceded to Republican Mike Garcia in the special election for the U.S. House seat left vacant when former California Democratic Rep. Katie Hill resigned amid controversy last year.

“While it’s critical that we ensure every vote is counted and recorded, we believe that the current tally shows Mike Garcia is the likely victor in the May 12 special election. As such, I'd like to congratulate him,” Smith said in a statement on Wednesday.