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Blair Isn't Ready To Admit Defeat In Commission Race

Tribune photo by KEVIN HOWE

County Commissioner Brian Blair shakes hands with supporters during an election watch party Tuesday. Two days after the election, the race between Blair and Democratic challenger Kevin Beckner is not yet settled.

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By MIKE SALINERO | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 6, 2008

Hillsborough County Commissioner Brian Blair said this morning he is not ready to concede defeat in his race with Democrat Kevin Beckner.

Beckner led Blair, an incumbent Republican, by 20,000 votes this morning, but there are still thousands of early votes being counted.

"I'm an athlete," Blair said this morning during a break in a commission meeting. "I'm running until the race is over."

Commissioner Rose Ferlita, who has often crossed swords with Blair over environmental issues and other matters, wished Blair well if the ultimate vote total went Beckner's way.

"In the event you are replaced by someone else, I want to thank you for your service and say good luck and Godspeed," she said.

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