Update: McConnaughay 'Honored' After Winning GOP Nomination

Update: 12:03 a.m.

With all precincts now reporting, McConnaughay drew about 4,600 more votes than Surges.

Updated 11:32 p.m.

Surges released a statement late Tuesday.

“I would like to begin by thanking my wonderful wife Audrey and our three children; Jake, Colin, and Talia for all their love and support throughout this long and difficult campaign. Without their support and encouragement, I could never have sustained this campaign. I would also like to thank our volunteers and supporters, for they are the true warriors and did the work needed for us to carry our campaign message to the voters.”

“Although we were not victorious tonight, I want to congratulate and wish Ms. McConnaughay well. We both fought hard in this election, and in the end the results are what they are, and in this great democracy we will always respect the decision of the voters.”

Original story

With only five precincts uncounted between two counties, Karen McConnaughay says she is "honored" with Tuesday's results in 33rd District State Senate race.

"I’m very honored and privileged that the voters of the 33rd District understood my commitment for making Illinois a better place to live,” McConnaughay said late Tuesday.

The primary win over Republican opponent Cliff Surges could mean an easy walk into November’s general election for McConnaughay. No Democrats ran in the primary Tuesday, leaving the race wide open for McConnaughay and barring any unforeseen issues.

When reached for comment, campaign manager Scott Webb told St. Charles Patch that Surges was with his family and supporters. Surges did to speak on the phone when asked for a comment about the election results.

McConnaughay still has seven months left serving in her current role as Kane County Board chairwoman.

“If I prevail in November, I want to take to Springfield the same sort of disciplined, small government that we were able to (have) in Kane County,” she said.

All results remain unofficial.