Panetta scoops U.S. Rep. seat

UPDATE 11/8/16 10:45 PM: Casey Lucius conceded the 20th Congressional election to Jimmy Panetta late Tuesday night.

In a post to her Facebook page, Lucius wroteL “This was an adventure that I will never forget. I met countless people throughout the district over the last 18 months, I heard incredible stories that I will keep with me forever, and I made more friends than could have ever imagined. I want to congratulate Jimmy Panetta on winning this race. I will do all I can to support him as our representative.”

ORIGINAL STORY: With nearly 95 percent of precincts reporting in Monterey County, Jimmy Panetta (D) has almost won the race for U.S. Representative, District 20.

So far Panetta has grabbed about 66 percent of the vote, while opponent Casey Lucius (R) has 34 percent.

Once results are certified, Panetta will replace retiring Representative Sam Farr.

Farr endorsed Panetta for the position.

“We know this area and this area knows me,” Panetta said. “They gotten to know me throughout this campaign. I’ve been to every nook and cranny in this district from Parkfield to Pajaro to Tres Pinos and Santa Cruz, you name it. We’ve been there, we’ve met people, and they’ve met me.”