Nearly three weeks after Election Day, Nate McMurray conceded the race for New York’s 27^th Congressional District, clearing the way for Rep. Chris Collins to return to Washington, D.C.

After tallying affidavits and absentee ballots, the race came down to about 1,400 votes, with Collins keeping a lead and winning by roughly one half of one percentage point.

But McMurray made it clear he’s not done with politics just yet, noting that the race had the “largest partisan swing of any state or federal race in the country.”

McMurray said he made the decision to concede on Monday morning.

“A huge part of me wants to continue to fight,” he said. “I can’t just fake it. I can’t smile and pretend that everything that went down for the last year is ok.”

He admitted he considered legal challenges to call for a recount but ultimately decided it was not in the best interest of the community.

McMurray also announced a new organization, Fight Like Hell, to “pay it forward” and help other political newcomers navigate campaigning.

“I want more people to run for office, regular people, not millionaires, not people who cheat the system, but decent and kind and good people” who will hold leadership accountable.

He also invited Collins to attend the town halls McMurray and his new organization will hold.

“When the time is right, I will run for office again,” he added.

In response, Collins’ campaign said he is “already back at work. He appreciates the support of voters across the 27^th Congressional District and looks forward to ensuring our region’s voice is heard in Congress.”