Republicans won control of the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday -- with a helping hand from Florida voters.
Congressional Democrats U.S. Rep. Suzanne Kosmas and U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd went down to defeat by wide margins.
With 91 percent of the vote in, Republican Rep. Sandy Adams of Oviedo took 60 percent while Kosmas carried 40 percent.
Thanks to everyone who made our victory possible, Adams told supporters.
Florida 24 voters spoke clearly and they overwhelmingly want Sandy to represent them in Congress, said Sen. John Thrasher of Jacksonville, the chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. Sandy is a strong and principled advocate for policies that will create jobs and stop Washingtons reckless spending and debt. Im looking forward to Congresswoman-elect Adams work on behalf of Florida, fighting for jobs and against the Obama Washington agenda of runaway spending and debt. Im confident shell be an excellent public servant for the people of the 24th district."
Though I am disappointed by today's outcome, I truly believe that over the past two years we have taken significant steps that will ensure a brighter future for our communities, our state, and our nation, said Kosmas. America is the greatest country in the world because we have the greatest democracy in the world, and I have the utmost respect for our political process. The enthusiasm of grass-roots supporters like you has kept me going and I am so grateful for all that you have done for my campaign.
No matter what, I will continue to give back to my community as a private citizen, added Kosmas. These are difficult times, and despite our political differences, the only way we will overcome these challenges is to work together to improve the quality of life for our communities. I will always be grateful that the people of Central Florida gave me the opportunity to represent them, and I can only hope that at the end of the day I was able to make some positive difference in their lives.
With 93 percent of the votes counted, Southerland took 55 percent -- crushing Boyd who had 40 percent. The remainder went to two candidates running with no party affiliation. Boyd, who was first elected to Congress in 1996, won more than 60 percent in 2008.
I am truly humbled by the tremendous support our campaign has received from voters across all 16 counties of the 2nd District, said Southerland. It has been a remarkable journey for me and my family and it was a true blessing to have so many old and new friends by our side.
I appreciate Congressman Allen Boyd for his years of dedicated service to North Florida, added Southerland.While we may have had our disagreements on the campaign trail, I know that we share a strong desire to bring Republicans, Democrats, and independents together to tackle the challenges facing our communities.
Tonights results validate the justness of our cause and give us good reason to celebrate, closed Southerland. However, the real work begins now. I look forward to going to Washington and fighting for our treasured values. Not only will I be your congressman, I will be your representative.
I congratulate Congressman-elect Steve Southerland on a great victory tonight, said Thrasher. Florida 2 voters spoke clearly and they overwhelmingly want Steve to represent them in Congress. Steve is a strong and principled advocate for policies that will create jobs and stop Washingtons reckless spending and debt. Im looking forward to Congressman-elect Southerlands work on behalf of Florida, fighting for jobs and against the Obama Washington agenda of runaway spending and debt. Im confident hell be an excellent public servant for the people of the 2nd district."
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
