Republican Jen Kiggans won her reelection bid against Democrat Missy Cotter Smasal in the race for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, keeping the seat red and boosting the GOP’s chances of holding onto its House majority.
AP called the race in Kiggans' favor over Cotter Smasal on Wednesday around 5:30 p.m.
Cotter Smasal conceded to Kiggans Wednesday. Her campaign shared the following statement:
“Today I concede the race for Congress. I’m proud of our campaign that focused on essential freedoms and protecting our Democracy. That work must continue, and I know my supporters will continue to make their voices heard.”
“To our voters, I’m sorry that we did not win the day, but I’m so thankful for your hard work and support. I carry your stories and experiences with me every day, and I am grateful for your trust and teamwork throughout this journey. The countless doors we knocked on, the phone calls we made, and our unwavering commitment to truth and justice in the face of extremism are evidence of our resolve and patriotism. I hope that Congresswoman Kiggans will develop the strength to stand up to extremism in her own party and focus on the needs of ALL Coastal Virginians.”“We will always know that we were on the right side of history. Keep the faith and keep up the fight.”
Although Republicans have taken the Senate majority, control of the House is still up for grabs. As of Wednesday evening around 5:30 p.m., our results partner DDHQ still hasn't called 30 House races, and neither party has reached the 218 threshold needed to secure control of the lower chamber.
Live updates on House races:
Kiggans is a geriatric nurse practitioner and a former Navy helicopter pilot. She served on the Virginia State Senate, resigning upon winning her current House seat.
Cotter Smasal is a former small business owner and a former Navy surface warfare officer.
Kiggans managed to stave off Cotter Smasal’s effort to flip the seat blue in a district that’s been highly competitive in recent years. When Kiggans won the seat in 2022, she unseated Democrat Elaine Luria. Luria served two consecutive terms after defeating Republican incumbent Scott Taylor in 2018.
"I know that this is a purple district. This is always going to be a tough seat," Kiggans told News 3 while campaigning in September.
Watch: Kiggans, Cotter Smasal clash in 1st and only debate on News 3
The boundaries of the 2nd Congressional District were redrawn in 2021 following redistricting. The district used to include the Eastern Shore, Virginia Beach, parts of Norfolk, and part of the Peninsula.
It now consists of Virginia Beach, the Eastern Shore, Suffolk, Franklin, Isle of Wight County and parts of Chesapeake and Southampton County. Experts say that has made the district more favorable to Republicans.
This marks the second election with the redrawn district.
