TOLEDO, Ohio — Democratic Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur claims she has retained her seat in Ohio's 9th Congressional District, despite it being too close to call even into early afternoon on Thursday, according to the Associated Press.
Kaptur and Republican challenger Derek Merrin are locked in a tight battle, with Kaptur holding a razor-thin lead of about 1,200 votes, according to unofficial election results.
According to the Associated Press, with approximately 99% of the votes counted, Kaptur has garnered 176,228 votes, accounting for 48.1% of the total. Merrin trails closely with 175,035 votes — 47.8%.
The narrow margin underscores the competitive nature of this year’s race, reflecting a deeply divided electorate. Both candidates campaigned vigorously, emphasizing their distinct visions for the district’s future.
Kaptur's statement, sent in a press release early Wednesday morning, is below:
“Tonight, the people of Ohio’s 9th District have spoken, and I am deeply grateful for the trust they have placed in me to continue fighting for working families, creating good-paying jobs, protecting healthcare for everyone, and securing Social Security and Medicare so Ohioans can retire with dignity. This campaign has always been about the strength and resilience of our communities, and tonight we celebrate not just a victory but a renewed commitment to the belief that what America makes and grows, makes and grows America.
“Together, we have delivered for Northwest Ohio, reinvesting in our communities, our industries, and our people. I am inspired by the hardworking people across our district who fuel our economy every day and pledge to continue our work to grow jobs here at home, strengthen our manufacturing sector, and ensure dignity and stability for everyone who works hard and plays by the rules. There is so much left to accomplish in our next term. Our best days lie ahead of us. It is time to put partisanship aside and get back to work for America’s ‘Big Middle.’”
Kaptur, who has served in Congress since 1983, has focused on her extensive experience and commitment to local issues. Merrin, a state representative, has positioned himself as a fresh voice with a focus on conservative values and economic growth.
The outcome of this race could hinge on the remaining uncounted ballots, making every vote crucial in determining the district’s representation in the House. A recount would happen if the totality of race is within one-half of one percent. If greater than one-half of one percent, a candidate can request a recount, but they would have to pay for it.
Merrin's campaign offered the following statement Wednesday morning:
"Our team is working to ensure every vote is properly counted so an accurate tally can be determined. There are thousands of provisional ballots left to be counted & absentee ballots still to be delivered. We are beyond grateful to every supporter as we navigate this process."
Stay tuned for further updates as the vote count progresses and the final results are announced.
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