Virginia Democrats concede defeat, say Republicans control House

RICHMOND, Va. — Democratic leaders in Virginia conceded Friday that Republicans have won control of the House of Delegates. The Associated Press has not called all of the races yet. But House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn issued a statement acknowledging the GOP majority shortly after Democratic Del. Martha Mugler conceded defeat in a tight race against…

RICHMOND (VA) — Virginia’s Democratic leaders conceded Friday that the House of Delegates is now controlled by Republicans.

The Associated Press hasn’t called all races yet.

But House speaker Eileen FillerCorn issued a statement acknowledging that the GOP majority was in place shortly after Democratic Del. Martha Mugler conceded defeat to Republican challenger A.C. Cordoza, in a close race in the 91st house district. It is located in Virginia’s Hampton Roads area. WIth Mugler’s concession, Republicans now expect control over 51 seats in the 100-member chamber.

The concession would allow Republicans to complete an election sweep that saw them reclaim the offices of governor, lieutenant Governor and attorney general. This is being interpreted as a backlash against the Democratic majority, which has been pushing through progressive reforms for the past two years.

The General Assembly is now split, with Democrats holding a slim 21-19 majority in the Senate. 2023. is the last day that senators can be reelected.