Reyes Thanks El Pasoans, Congratulates O’Rourke

Congressman Silvestre Reyes spoke to Beto O’Rourke at 3:28 p.m. Mountain Time Wednesday and conceded the race, according to Reyes’ campaign. Reyes is in Washington, D.C. because his border tunnel bill is set to be signed by President Barack Obama, according to a statement from Reyes’ campaign.

Read Reyes’ statement to El Pasoans below:

“To all El Pasoans, I express my deep appreciation for the privilege of representing you for the past 15 years. Your entrustment of this office to me has been a great honor.

“To my supporters, individuals that have touched my life throughout my 41 years in public service, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you for all you have done. Words cannot tell how much I appreciate the love and support you have shown me and my family over the years. Thank you for the good memories and collective accomplishments; thank you for your vote of confidence and for believing in me; thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement.

“I take this time to congratulate Mr. Beto O’Rourke in winning the 16th District of Texas Democratic Primary. My staff and I are ready to work with the new Congressperson and their incoming staff to transition the office and to continue the vital work it provides this community.

“As this campaign comes to an end, I thank the love of my life, Carolina, and my children for their support. I truly believe that because of our work, West Texas is a better place. We still have much work to do, and I can assure all El Pasoans, I will continue to represent and work hard for them until the end of my term and beyond, if needed.

“God Bless El Paso and this great country.”

–Congressman Silvestre Reyes