DELANO, Minn. — Republican Tom Emmer conceded the Minnesota governor's race to Mark Dayton on Wednesday, surrendering after a statewide recount failed to substantially change the Democrat's nearly 9,000-vote election night lead.
"Minnesotans made their choice, by however thin a margin, and we respect that choice," Emmer told reporters gathered at his home outside Minneapolis.
He could have sued over the election outcome but decided against it after a key state Supreme Court decision went against him. He cited the court's opinion in his concession, but also alluded to major issues facing the state.
"I do not believe a delay in the seating of the next governor will unite us or help us move the state forward," Emmer said.
