Jay Fant Beats Paul Renner by 2 Votes

Banker Jay Fant was declared the winner of the Republican primary to replace Rep. Daniel Davis, R-Jacksonville, in the Florida House on Friday. After the Duval County Elections Supervisor held a machine recount and examined ballots, Fant beat attorney and Navy veteran Paul Renner by 2 votes: 5,962 to 5,960.

I have to thank my wife, my children, my family, and all my loyal supporters and volunteers who made today's victory possible, Fant said on Friday after the recount. I cannot say a word, however, with expressing my full and heartfelt congratulations to Paul Renner for a contest well fought. This was a tough race in which we agreed more than we disagreed, and I want to continue to work with Paul on the priorities that we share, which include the well being of Florida's economy and resistance to so much of the Obama agenda.

I also want to express thanks to the faithful public servants who conducted this election, including Duval Supervisor of Elections Jerry Holland, the canvassing board, and the many workers who have worked late hours these past few days, Fant added.