Updated Nov 10, 2009 - 7:33 am
Mike McGinn claims victory in Seattle mayor's race
Comments | 
Print this | 
E-mail this | 
Environmentalist attorney Mike McGinn has claimed victory in the race for Seattle Mayor.
The former Sierra Club president says he plans to put a light rail expansion before voters within a year, and he vowed to work with people throughout the city to build a stronger community, "We can do that together, and that's everybody, that's not just the people in this room, that's not the people that voted for us. That is everybody in this city."
McGinn thanked voters in a press conference Monday. "I want to thank the voters who voted for me. And I want to ask you together, let us show that hard work, let us show that passion, let us show that belief in community, and let us build that city we believe in."
After Monday's King County results, McGinn's lead over T- Mobile executive Joe Mallahan was nearly 5,000 votes. McGinn's lead grew Monday by more than 2,500 votes, putting him significantly ahead of his opponent.
McGinn announced in the press conference that Mallahan had called to offer his concession. McGinn described his opponent as "a gentleman" and thanked him for his passion for his campaign and his city.
Mallahan says Seattle voters responded to McGinn's message, and that he'd be willing to work with McGinn in the future.
McGinn overcame Mallahan's bigger bank account and numerous endorsements, including from prominent politicians, such as Gov. Chris Gregoire, labor unions, and business organizations.
The close race had been threatening a recount as early results showed the vote counts differing by less than 2,000 votes. State law requires a recount if the margin is fewer than 2,000 votes and less than one-half of 1 percent of the total vote.
In the August primary, McGinn and Mallahan finished ahead of incumbent Mayor Greg Nickels.
© 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
- Mike McGinn claims victory in Seattle mayor's race
- Gay partnership measure approved by voters
- Washington senator declares victory in R-71 campaign
- Approve Referendum 71 campaign maintains lead
- McGinn widens lead in Seattle's mayoral race
- Michael Medved: A conservative's take on Washington's election
- Mayors races in Tacoma, Vancouver, Bremerton
- Eyman admits defeat on I-1033
- Carr concedes race for Seattle City Attorney
- Councilman Constantine wins King Co Executive race
