Election 2022: Drazan concedes Oregon governor’s race
Published 3:00 pm Friday, November 11, 2022
- Tina Kotek was confirmed on Thursday as winner of the close race for Oregon governor, with the Associated Press calling the Democrat the winner over Republican Christine Drazan. Kotek, center celebrates with supporters.
SALEM — Republican governor nominee Christine Drazan conceded the race to Democrat Tina Kotek.
“The math for a comeback just did not add up,” Drazan said in a statement.
She said she has called to congratulate Democrat Tina Kotek, but noted in the statement that “a majority of Oregonians voted for a candidate who did not win” — setting the stage for likely 2023 political battles with Oregon Legislature, where Democrats have smaller majorities than in 2022.
She also thanked supporters, saying though the campaign has come to an end, “I am immensely grateful for all the Oregonians who joined our movement to take our state in a new direction.”
Drazan said “this is a unique moment in Oregon’s history and an extraordinary opportunity for leadership that recognizes the dynamics of this race that call for moderation and inclusivity moving forward. I have spoken with Tina Kotek and hope for the best for our state as she steps into this role.”
