Turner Wins in NY House Race, Weprin Concedes

Republicans have scored an upset victory in a New York City House race that became a referendum on President Barack Obama's economic policies.

Retired media executive and political novice Bob Turner defeated Democratic state Assemblyman David Weprin in a special election Tuesday to succeed Rep. Anthony Weiner, a seven-term Democrat who resigned in June after a sexting scandal.

"We've been asked by the people of this district to send a message to Washington," Turner told supporters after the landmark win. "I hope they hear it loud and clear. We've been told this is a referendum. Mr. President, we are on the wrong track. We have had it with an irresponsible fiscal policy which endangers the entire economy."

Weprin did not immediately concede.

With nearly 90 percent of precincts reporting, Turner had 54 percent of the vote and Weprin had 46 percent, nearly identical to the results of a Siena poll announced Sept. 9.

Democrats had held the seat in New York's ninth Congressional district since 1923, though the district's boundaries have morphed due to redistricting. Turner will represent parts of Brooklyn and Queens. 

In his acceptance speech last night, he tapped into his constituents' dissatisfaction with President Obama's policies and vowed to work tirelessly during the remainder of what was Anthony Weiner's two-year term.

"We are unhappy. I am telling you. I am the messenger. Heed us. This message will resound for a full year, and will resound into 2012," he said.

Turner said he would bring business practicality to Washington and push back on spending and taxes.

With the Associated Press