Gorton defeat is official

DECEMBER 4, 2000

Senator Slade Gorton (R-Washington) conceded defeat to Democrat Maria Cantwell on Friday, after an official recount of the state's nearly 2.5 million ballots confirmed her win.

A recount was ordered under state law because the difference in votes between the two candidates was less than one-half of one percent. After all 39 counties reported their results, Cantwell emerged the official winner by 2,229 votes.

The race was closely watched by the state, tribal leaders, and the country due to its importance in setting the balance of power in the Senate. With Cantwell, the Senate is equally split between the parties, the first time in over a century.

Depending on the outcome of the Presidential race, however, that split may change. If George W. Bush wins, Dick Cheney would become President of the Senate and would cast any tie-breaking votes.

If Vice President Al Gore wins, Senator Joe Lieberman of Connecticut would have to give up his seat and the state's Governor, a Republican, would appoint a replacement.

Get the Recount Results:
US Senator Recount Results (State of Washington)

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