Volz earns third term as Zappone concedes

DISTRICT 6--Twice-incumbent Mike Volz, a Republican, has earned a third term in the state House of Representatives for District 6, Position 1. His Democratic challenger, Zack Zappone, conceded today.

"I'm happy with the results, of course," Volz said. "It's been a tough and interesting year."

Volz thanked Zappone for running a "spirited and lively campaign."

"I thank him for running. I think that's what makes the system work is people running, so I thank him for that," he said. "There was a clear difference (between candidates), and the voters decided."

Zappone sent a notice of his concession around 2 p.m. today.

"I could not be more proud of the positive, substantive campaign we've built. I jumped into this race on the last day of filing week, virtually unknown to most voters," Zappone said in a statement. "After 172 days of campaigning, this grassroots campaign got within striking distance of defeating a four

year incumbent. Thanks to an incredible team of volunteers and supporters, we were able to exceed every expectation and show Spokane there's a different, better way of doing politics."

Recent ballot returns show Volz with 41,055 votes to Zappone's 38,560, or 51.51% to 48.38%. The margin was too steep for Zappone to overcome with just over 6,000 ballot counts remaining.

Volz will continue to represent the 6th Legislative District with incumbent Jenny Graham, who defeated challenger Tom McGarry for the Position 2 race. McGarry conceded earlier Thursday.

He said his priorities in his third term will include working on the state's budget gap and COVID-19 recovery. For now, he'll take a short time off while evaluating what legislature will look like once all elections are certified.