New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine (KOHR’-zyn) has conceded in his tough re-election bid against Republican Chris Christie.
Corzine says he called Christie just before 11 p.m. Tuesday “and congratulated him on becoming New Jersey’s next governor.” He pledged to work with Christie to ensure a smooth transition.
The 47-year-old Christie is a former federal prosecutor. Many voters were disenchanted with Corzine in New Jersey, home to the nation’s highest property taxes.
Corzine lost despite spending much of his fortune on the campaign and getting help from Democratic stars including President Barack Obama.
Christie accepted public financing and was outspent by more than $12 million.
With 97 percent of precincts reporting, Christie had 49 percent of the vote to Corzine’s 44 percent.
ANGELA DELLI SANTI, AP
