Rep. Wayne T. Gilchrest has just issued a brief statement on his defeat two days ago in the Republican primary election for the First Congressional District. He did not name state Sen. Andy Harris, who won the GOP nomination after a bitter campaign that also included state Sen. E.J. Pipkin.
"I would like to congratulate all of the campaigns and their supporters who worked so hard in this election," said the 61-year-old Gilchrest, serving his ninth term representing the district that includes the Eastern Shore and parts of Anne Arundel, Howard and Baltimore counties. "It is a real sacrifice to participate in the political process, and having been through many campaigns, I commend each candidate and their families who made the sacrifice to do so.
"As I ponder my own future, I look forward to continuing to advancing good public policy to protect our environment and to promoting a more productive and peaceful planet."
Democratic Rep. Albert R. Wynn, the other Maryland incumbent who was defeated in a party primary on Tuesday, issued his concession on Wednesday.
"Over the last 15 years, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of the 4th Congressional District," said the 56-year-old Wynn, in his eighth term representing the district in Montgomery and Prince George's counties. "As I said last night, this seat does not belong to any one person – it belongs to you.
"Over my tenure, I have tried my very best to represent the interests of all the people in the district – small business, labor, youth needs, senior citizens and the community as a whole. I have worked on major transportation, community building and economic development projects. I have listened to you and tried to do my best in representing you in Congress.
"I want to thank everyone who has given support and volunteered their time and efforts in my campaign. I am proud of the positive –issues based campaign that we ran powered by people and community leaders from this district. I appreciate your dedication during this campaign and all your hard work at the polls in truly awful weather.
"I want to thank you and I look forward to serving out the remainder my term in Congress. There is much work to be done and I wish you well.
"Thank you."
