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Scott Tipton Defeats Gail Schwartz In Congressional Race

CARBONDALE, Colo. (CBS4) - Incumbent Republican U.S. Congressman Scott Tipton will represent citizens of Colorado's Western Slope for another term.

Tipton defeated Democrat Gail Schwartz, a former state senator from Crested Butte, in Colorado's 3rd Congressional District by a margin of 55 percent to 41 percent.

Scott Tipton
U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton (credit: CBS)

Tipton won a primary challenge to defend his seat, which he has held since he defeated Democrat incumbent John Salazar in 2010.

Schwartz released a statement on Wednesday morning.

"We are incredibly proud of the campaign we ran and the support we had from thousands of people across the remarkable 3rd Congressional District. I congratulate Scott Tipton, and hope that this campaign season has helped him appreciate the importance of bridging the political divide and bringing the residents of the 3rd Congressional District together on the many issues and values that unite us."

"Upon the conclusion of this historic and divisive election cycle, I maintain my faith in a promising future, thanks to people from our district who care about the issues facing our state and nation. It was an honor to run to represent the 3rd Congressional District in Congress, and I won't ever forget this experience. I pledge to continue my work to make Western and Southern Colorado the best possible place to live, work and raise a family," said Gail Schwartz in a statement.

Gail Schwartz
Gail Schwartz (credit: CBS)

The race between Tipton and Schwartz was tight from the start. Some reports estimated Tipton's campaign spent $900,00 on advertising and Schwartz's campaign spent $600,000.

PHOTO GALLERIES: Election Day In Colorado | CBS4 Behind The Scenes

Outside groups also poured in a lot of advertising money.

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