It’s over.

Three-term U.S. Senator Bob Casey Jr. has conceded Pennsylvania Senate race to Republican Dave McCormick.

“I just called Dave McCormick to congratulate him on his election to represent Pennsylvania in the United States Senate. As the first count of ballots is completed, Pennsylvanians can move forward with the knowledge that their voices were heard, whether their vote was the first to be counted or the last.

“This race was one of the closest in our Commonwealth’s history, decided by less than a quarter of a point. I am grateful to the thousands of people who worked to make sure every eligible vote cast could be counted, including election officials in all 67 counties.

“When a Pennsylvanian takes the time to cast a legal vote, often waiting in long lines and taking time away from their work and family, they deserve to know that their vote will count. That’s democracy.”

McCormick applauded Casey for his service to Pennsylvania.

“Senator Bob Casey dedicated his career to bettering our commonwealth. Dina and I want to extend our sincere gratitude to Senator Casey, Terese, and their family for their decades of service, hard work, and personal sacrifice.

“I am so honored to represent every single citizen in Pennsylvania in the United States Senate and will fight for you every day. Thank you!”

Although the mandatory recount reduced McCormick’s advantage over Casey, it was clear that Casey did not have the votes available to reverse the decision of the Keystone State voters. As of 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evening, Casey had been able to reduce his deficit to around 16,000 votes but far from the amount needed to reverse the decision.

Pennsylvania’s other senator – John Fetterman – responded in a statement to Casey’s decision to concede.

“This hits me.

“It’s been a supreme honor to have Bob Casey as a colleague, friend, and mentor.

“His legacy is a better Pennsylvania.

“Unassuming while delivering for PA for nearly two decades, he fought for working Pennsylvanians and unions, rural communities, seniors and people with disabilities—all of us.

“Bob Casey was, is, and always will be Pennsylvania’s best senator.”

This is a breaking story and may be updated