Marty Golden Concedes To Andrew Gounardes Weeks After Senate Race

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK — Brooklyn state Senator Marty Golden conceded to his Democratic challenger Andrew Gounardes almost two weeks after Election Day.

The 22nd District leader and Brooklyn's sole Republican state Senator announced he would give up his seat to progressive challenger Monday morning in an official statement.

"Although we came up just short this election, I am grateful my career in public service has been full of much success as a police officer and as an elected official," said Golden.

"I congratulate Andrew Gounardes and wish him well in his service to the people of the 22nd State Senate District."

Gounardes declared victory on Nov. 7, one day after Board of Election results showed him leading with more than 1,000 votes, but Golden refused to give up the battle until about 1,400 absentee ballots were counted.

Gounardes will join a New York State Senate with a democratic majority for the first time in years.

“I am grateful to people of Southern Brooklyn for their support and humbled by their trust in me to be our community’s voice in Albany," Gounardes stated in response.

"I look forward to going to Albany to fight for affordable health care, a livable wage, a world-class education system, pedestrian safety, an MTA that is reliable, accessible, and accountable to all, and equal protections for all of our citizens."

Photo of New York State Senator Martin Golden (left) by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images and of Andrew Gounardes (right) courtesy of the candidate's campaign.