NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The 2nd Congressional District race between Republican Incumbent Yvette Herrell and Democrat Gabe Vasquez ended Wednesday evening as Democrat Gabe Vasquez claimed victory in the contentious race for the seat. Around 5:00 p.m., Herrell conceded to Vasquez with a post to her Facebook page saying she was disappointed but “incredibly proud” of her team.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the vote was split 50-50 but Vasquez appeared to have a slight lead. Numbers show him with over 1,000 more votes than Herrell.
The race was expected to be very competitive after redistricting reshaped the southern Congressional district, roping in Democratic strongholds in Albuquerque’s westside and the South Valley. Herrell won the seat two years ago in a presidential year in a district that has been solidly Republican for decades.
KRQE Political Expert Gabe Sanchez points out that redistricting brought in more Hispanic voters who are expected to cast their ballots for Herrell’s Democratic challenger. Herrell has attacked Vasquez, saying he wants to defund the police and cripple the oil and gas industry.
