CARBON COUNTY, Pa. — The race for who would take the seat to represent the 7th Congressional District came down to Democrat incumbent Susan Wild and Republican State Representative Ryan Mackenzie.
After the vote count, Mackenzie is the new face of the district.
"The results came in, and we saw our message resonated across the district, so we are very grateful for the support we've received, and now it's time to get to work to get results for the people," said Ryan Mackenzie, congressman-elect.
Congresswoman Wild was seeking her 4th term in office but fell short. Mackenzie won with just over 50% of the vote.
The Monroe County GOP weighed in on what issues voters had on their minds.
"Members in our community are really looking for an economy that will work for them. They are looking for secure borders, and they are looking for safe communities. I think that showed on election day," said Christine Wilkins a member of the Executive Committee of the Monroe County GOP.
The 7th district covers all of Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon Counties, plus parts of Monroe. Mackenzie credits past political experience and connections in Carbon and Monroe for the victory.
"Which were really helpful in getting into those new communities for me as somebody who was a new candidate in those areas, so came together nicely and I've been warmly welcomed there and looking forward to representing them in congress," explained Mackenzie.
The Monroe County GOP says this race came down to a big push for high voter turnout.
"Our message number one, to get your mail-in ballots to vote early, so that was done, and the other thing our party really united together and worked together very hard," said Wilkins.
Mackenzie says in the new role of heading to Congress, he's looking forward to tackling inflation and immigration.
Congresswoman Susan Wild posted a statement on social media Wednesday saying she is proud of her work in Congress and congratulated Mackenzie on his win.
Congressman-elect Mackenzie will take office in January.