Watch CBS News

Coffman Keeps Seat In 6th Congressional District

AURORA, Colo. (CBS4)- Republican Rep. Mike Coffman kept his seat in the 6th Congressional District against Democratic challenger Andrew Romanoff despite a major revamp of the district's boundaries.

It was one of the most competitive U.S. House races and the most expensive in state history.

Coffman-Romanoff
(credit: CBS)

Coffman took the podium at the Republican watch party for his acceptance speech just before 8 p.m. Tuesday.

"My thanks to the voters for allowing me to continue to serve our nation in the United States House of Representatives where I will serve with the same honor and integrity that I served as a soldier in the United States Army and an officer in the United States Marine Corps," said Coffman.

Mike Coffman
Rep. Mike Coffman delivers his acceptance speech on Nov. 4, 2014. (credit: CBS)

"To those of you who supported me in what began as the most competitive House race in the country, thank you, thank you. To those who did not support to me, I pledge to listen to your concerns and do what I can to bridge the partisan divide that has plagued Washington, D.C. and polarized this nation.

"To my opponent Andrew Romanoff, thank you for running. This has been a very tough race and I am a better candidate because of it."

In 2012, the district's boundaries were redrawn to include Aurora, and now it's divided nearly evenly between Republicans, Democrats and independents.

Andrew Romanoff Concedes
Andrew Romanoff concedes to Rep. Mike Coffman (credit: CBS)

Its ethnic and racial makeup has changed, too. Immigrants compose roughly half of the 6th -- which surrounds Denver to the east and includes portions of Adams, Arapahoe and Douglas counties. About 20 percent of the district's population is Hispanic.

Coffman decided to learn Spanish to better communicate with his constituents.

"About a year ago when his district had been revised, he realized that there would be a significant push that was from the Hispanic community, so he decided to learn Spanish so he could communicate with members of that community. He did an amazing job. He didn't have to do a debate in Spanish but he chose to do that," said Former U.S. Treasurer Rosario Marin at the Republican watch party.

PHOTO GALLERY: Election Day In Colorado

"To the Asian, Hispanic and African communities, I will continue working with you to achieving your American dream," said Coffman.

The district has been in Republican hands since its creation more than 30 years ago.

The new boundaries and growing influence of Latino and immigrant voters have driven the race, which will determine who controls a Colorado House delegation that consists of four Republicans and three Democrats. Coffman is the only incumbent facing a real challenge.

Romanoff conceded to Coffman about 8:45 p.m. where he thanked all his supporters.

Romanoff moved to Aurora last year to challenge Coffman.

More Campaign 2014 Stories

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.