Sen. Patty Murray was elected to a fifth term in the U.S. Senate, making the Democrat one of the longest-serving senators in Washington history.
Murray defeated Republican Chris Vance, who was seeking to become the first Republican elected to the Senate from the state since 1994.
Vance, the former Washington Republican Party chairman, had hoped his message of fiscal discipline and social moderation would resonate with state voters long turned off by the GOP.
Murray, first elected in 1992, dismissed Vance's criticism that she is responsible for congressional gridlock and the failure to address deficit spending and shore up Social Security and Medicare. During the campaign she pointed to her work with Republicans on the budget and education as examples of how she can accomplish things in a tough environment.
Vance released the following statement:
“Congratulations to Senator Murray on her reelection victory. Our disagreements are many, but they were never personal. Patty Murray is a good, honest, hardworking public servant, and I wish her nothing but the best during her next term in the Senate.
Politically, our campaign was based on the belief that after eight years of Barack Obama, voters would be ready for change and this would be a Republican wave election in which we could seriously challenge a 24 year Democratic incumbent. Unfortunately, although Republicans are doing well across the country, the results in King County are once again, extremely disappointing. To win in Washington State, Republicans must refocus their efforts on appealing to suburban Puget Sound voters.
I have been active in politics and public policy in our state for over 30 years. I’m sure that will continue in some capacity. Obviously, the results of this election are going to spur a major debate over the future of the Republican Party in our state. I look forward to being part of that. Washington State, needs a healthy two party system.
Once again, thank you to everyone who worked so hard on our campaign these past 14 months. I will be forever grateful.”