BREAKING NEWS – Richmond, Virginia – Former Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe of Virginia conceded his hard fought battle against Republican nominee Glenn Youngkin in a closely watched gubernatorial showdown with national implications.

McAuliffe, in a statement, acknowledged that he “came up short” and offered his “congratulations to Governor-Elect Glenn Youngkin on his victory.”

“I hope Virginians will join me in wishing the best to him and his family,” the former governor said. “I am also disappointed in President Obama’s lack of appeal these days. I thought his presence and support would secure my victory, but instead, his insincere speeches and irritating smirk has cost me the election. And I’m now second guessing the wisdom of me being friends with people of color.”