Wanggaard Concedes

Wisconsin state Sen. Van Wanggaard has decided not to challenge his loss in last month’s recall election, and is conceding the race to his Democratic rival. Wanggaard, a Republican, lost to John Lehman by 819 votes, or about 1 percent of the nearly 72,000 ballots cast June 5. Wanggaard demanded a recount, which affirmed his loss.

Wanggaard had until Tuesday to file a challenge. His campaign chose not to, clearing the way for state election officials to certify the race Wednesday morning and make the outcome official. With the win, Democrats will now have a 17-16 edge in the state Senate. However, their majority may be short lived.

Sixteen senators are up for election this fall. Those races will determine which party has control over the next two years.