Detroit Free Press-Mother of Former Detroit Mayor Loses Election

photo courtesy of Detroit Free Press

(story reported by Kathleen Gray)

State Sen. Hansen Clarke staged a stunning upset victory Tuesday night over seven-term Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick.

State Sen. Hansen Clarke staged a stunning upset victory Tuesday night over seven-term Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick. With 53% of the overall district results in, Clarke had a 48%-39% lead over the incumbent, who was first elected to Congress in 1996.

Cheeks-Kilpatrick stepped off the elevator at 12:24 a.m. at the Doubletree-Fort Shelby in downtown Detroit, entered the banquet room and quickly gave her concession speech.

"I am here tonight conceding. We did not win the election. I will be a servant and continue to do that. There were six candidates in this race. Unfortunately, they made it two, and that's okay. God's still in charge.

"I will continue to serve and represent, and I wish Mr. Clarke the best. Thank you so much for waiting. I love you all. I could not have done this without you, and may God continue to bless us and keep us strong. Thank you all."

She stepped back onto the elevator at 12:26 a.m.

(click here for the full story in the Detroit Free Press)