As supporters chanted "George, George, George," at a Democratic Party rally in White Plains, George Latimer declared victory in New York's 37th State Senate district just after midnight Wednesday.
The assemblyman thanked a room full of supporters in the Coliseum Night Club on S Broadway in White Plains.
"The people chose these seats," he said.
With 81 percent of district’s reporting, Latimer had received 55 percent of the vote to Republican Bob Cohen’s 45.
Latimer's victory keeps the 37th State Senate seat long held by Suzi Oppenheimer under Democratic control. Oppenheimer has occupied the seat since 1984. She did not run for re-election this year and will retire after completing her 14th term in December.
Bob Cohen (R) conceded the race at the Crown Plaza in White Plains, acknowledging that his campaign—and the campaigns of his fellow Republicans—fell short.
"But that's only part of the story," he said.
Cohen said Republicans needed to build up their party and reach out to conservative, independent and unaffiliated voters in Westchester County.
"We need to put forth the positions we espouse: Lower taxes, more effective government and an improved climate for business," he said. "We need to educate voters who tend to vote along party lines in a presidential election about these issues that matter."
Your a good hardworking man and have accomplished a lot by helping many people in Westchester. You have been an encouragement to me. Best of success to you and keep up the good work. Sincerely, Steve Sacco