EAST MOLINE, Ill. — Esther Joy King, Republican challenger for the 17th District Congresssional seat, has officially conceded the race to Rep. Cheri Bustos.
“The 2020 election has been like no other election, with increased mail-in ballots, tumultuous voting results, and military ballot delays,” said King. “I committed I would wait until their votes were counted before taking action.
“Now, with all the votes counted, it is appropriate for me to concede. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my team and the wonderful volunteers who gave of their precious time, energy, and resources to make this effort special.
“It was a hard fought race, and I am proud we focused the election on serving the people of the district instead of playing politics. I called Congresswoman Bustos, congratulated her, and asked her to keep the focus on doing what is right for the people of our district.”
The Associated Press on Nov. 5 called the election for Bustos, but King at the time said it was premature to concede.
King said she has not decided on plans going forward. She said she’s been encouraged and asked to run in 2022, but is “exploring options for the future.”
