Voters Give Gov. Scott Four More Years
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - By a margin of approximately 71,000 votes, Governor Rick Scott defeated challenger Charlie Crist to win re-election.
Scott received 48.3 percent to Crist's 47 percent.
Governor Scott had no public appearances the day after the most expensive governor's race in Florida's history came to an end.
Crist wasn't seen in public either on Wednesday. Instead his campaign sent an email to supporters saying, "I will always be proud of what we built together, and I'm so grateful that you were a part of it."
The night before, Scott gave his victory speech and made it clear that the next four years will be very much like the last four - his focus will be on jobs.
"Florida is on a mission and that mission is to keep growing and to become the very best place in the world to get a job, to raise a family and live the American dream," Scott told supporters in Bonita Springs.
Click here to watch Scott Speak After Win
Republican leaders said the victory for Scott was a validation of his efforts to create jobs and create a favorable climate for businesses. They said Scott's re-election showed his policies were working for Floridians.
Scott said after such a nasty and negative campaign with Democratic challenger Charlie Crist he is ready to put all that aside.
"Tomorrow, however, marks a new day. It's time to put all the division behind us and come together. Forget about all the partisanship," said Scott.
CLICK HERE To Watch Eliott Rodriguez's Report
But in the end the governor with the mantra of "Let's Get to Work" said he is ready to do so again.
"Texas likes to brag about being number one in job creation but we are on their heels and we will become number one," said Scott.
Just before 11:30 p.m., Charlie Crist conceded the race in a two and a half minute speech.
"Losing is not fun, but what is most important is that we come together as a state. This was a tough election and I understand that and I wish Governor Scott the best," Crist told supporters.
Click here to watch Charlie Crist's Concession speech.
With his wife, Carole, and running mate Annette Taddeo by his side, Crist thanked those who stood by him.
"I will never forget you. I will always be in debt to you. You are the most wonderful friends a person could ever hope for."
Click Here for more election results.
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