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Orentlicher Cedes Race To Drake Before Recount Official

Ron Drake is the official winner of Indiana's 8th Congressional District Democratic primary, now that David Orentlicher has ceded the race.

The May primary election between the two ended with Drake ahead by just 68 votes out of more than 58,000 cast. Orentlicher filed for a recount, which the state's recount commission approved nearly three months ago.

The re-tabulation of votes across several counties ended earlier this week – though official results weren't expected for at least another week.

But Orentlicher has thrown in the towel, conceding the race to Drake Friday afternoon. Orentlicher says it's clear the final numbers will confirm his opponent's victory.

Drake, an attorney with a Washington, D.C. practice, will face incumbent Republican Larry Bucshon this fall.

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