New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney conceded his race on Wednesday, acknowledging GOP challenger Edward Durr as one of New Jersey’s newest state senators.
Sweeney’s loss is a major upset for New Jersey Democrats and came amid a groundswell of outrage from parents and others over the inclusion of Critical Race Theory and other progressive ideas and policies in public schools. The swell in GOP support nearly cost the election for Democratic Governor Phil Murphy as well.
“It was a red wave,” Sweeney said at a Wednesday press conference when asked how Durr, a truck driver and political newcomer, beat the second most powerful politician in the state, according to the Associated Press.
“The results of Tuesday’s elections are in. All votes have been fairly counted and I, of course, accept the results. I want to congratulate Mr. Durr and wish him the best of luck,” Sweeney said while delivering prepared remarks. “The people of the third legislative district are the best of New Jersey. It has been an honor and privilege to represent them in the state Senate and to serve as the president of the state Senate.”
“What voters said in this election, New Jersey is a state filled with hard-working people who want to be able to provide for their families. As leaders, we need to speak directly to the concerns of all voters. I plan to keep speaking to those concerns. I plan to remain fully involved in public affairs in New Jersey,” he added.