Republican Mike Garcia said he’s “ready to go to work” after apparently defeating Democratic opponent Christy Smith in Tuesday’s Special Election for the 25th Congressional District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Garcia issued the following statement Wednesday:

“After seeing more results last night, it is clear that our message of lower taxes and ensuring we don’t take liberal Sacramento dysfunction to Washington prevailed.

“I’m ready to go to work right away for the citizens of the 25th Congressional District.

“For too long, the people of our district have not had representation, and it’s time their voice is heard in Washington. There are difficult times, and too much is at stake — our small businesses, pour workers and our families need all the help they can get.”

Smith, a California State Assemblywoman representing the 38th District which includes parts of the Santa Clarita Valley, released the following statement Wednesday, as her campaign turns its attention to challenging Garcia in the November general election race for the 25th Congressional District:

“While it’s critical that we ensure every vote is counted and recorded, we believe that the current tally shows Mike Garcia is the likely victor in the May 12 special election. As such, I’d like to congratulate him.

“That said, this is only one step in this process, and I look forward to having a vigorous debate about the issues in the upcoming November 2020 election, from healthcare access to job creation, aid for working families, investments in local classrooms to wildfire protection, women’s rights and more, in the months ahead.

“Most importantly, from the bottom of my heart, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of our supporters, from our brave firefighters, nurses, grocery workers, truck drivers and so many on the frontlines to our classroom teachers, grassroots activists, women, seniors, young people and all those who played an integral role in this effort. This campaign is about you – and our community – and there is no doubt in my mind that together, we will prevail in the fall general election.”