Baumgartner wins seat in Congress

COLFAX – Michael Baumgartner is the heir apparent to the 5th Congressional District seat held by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers.

As of press time on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, Baumgartner is was looking to defeat Democrat Carmela Conroy.

The 5th Congressional District spans 11 counties including Ferry, Pend Oreille, Lincoln, Stevens, Whitman, Walla Walla, Garfield, Asotin, Columbia and sections of Franklin and Adams County.

The seat has been held since 2004 by McMorris Rogers, R-Spokane.

As of press time, Baumgartner, leading with 59.65% of votes districtwide. Conroy had 40.22%.

In Whitman County, Baumgartner garnered 6,108 votes (54.06%) and Conroy 5,182 votes (45.87%).

In Spokane County, Baumgartner has 118,575 votes (57.25%) and Conroy 88,255 (42.61%).

In Adams County, Baumgartner has gotten 1,263 votes (84.26%) and Conroy 234 votes (15.61%).

In Lincoln County, Baumgartner garnered 4,073 votes (78.81%) and Conroy 1,089 votes, (21.07%).

In Stevens County, Baumgartner had gotten 7,267 votes (72.9%) and Conroy 2,690 votes (26.98%).

In Franklin County, Baumgartner has garnered 2,041 votes, (85.83%) and Conroy at 336 (14.13%).

"We're disappointed in the outcome, but the process of traveling across the district, meeting great people, participating in the Lentil Festival and other events has been wonderful," Conroy said Tuesday after initial returns. "I'm very proud of the grass-roots movement we have put together and the support of small donors and everybody who has supported out movement.

"It's been an overall great experience."

Baumgartner could not be reached for comment before press time.