Republican U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro on Tuesday evening conceded the race for New York's 19th Congressional District to Democrat Josh Riley, fully concluding the rematch contest from two years ago that was one of the most closely watched races in the country.

"Our race didn’t go the way we had hoped, but let me tell you, I am so proud of what we’ve built together," Molinaro said in a statement. "This campaign was about more than just winning a seat; it was about standing up for the people who make this state great, who work hard, who love their families, and who believe in the promise of New York and this nation."

The Associated Press declared Riley the winner of the race in the early morning hours the day after Election Day.

With the most recent updated vote totals as of Tuesday evening, Riley was leading Molinaro 50.7% to 49.3%, or by a little more than 4,000 votes, according to the latest unofficial results from the AP.

"I congratulate my opponent, Josh Riley. Josh, ran a tough race, and the people of this district have placed their faith in him," Molinaro said. "I wish you and your team success in serving our community, and I hope you’ll listen closely to the voices of every single person in this district. They’re counting on you."

Molinaro also thanked President-elect Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Elise Stefanik for their support and encouragement.

Riley’s victory puts an end to Molinaro’s brief time in Congress, which follows an already lengthy record in local and state offices. Molinaro was also the Republican nominee for governor in 2018.

"To my supporters— the outcome may bring disappointment, but please know this: we haven’t lost. Our values, our hopes, our dreams for America—they are still here, and they’re worth fighting for," Molinaro said. "I may not be in office, but I’m here to work alongside you to make this state safer, to tackle the fentanyl crisis, to secure our borders, and to give every family a fair shot at a better future."

Riley will be sworn in in January as a member of the 119th Congress.

The 19th District stretches from Rensselaer and Columbia counties in the east to Tompkins County and includes the cities of Binghamton and Ithaca.