Joe Simitian concedes after Silicon Valley congressional recount, congratulates Low

Assemblymember Evan Low has won a contentious and highly-politicized recount in Silicon Valley’s open congressional race, beating Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian for second place by five votes.

Of the 16 challenged ballots in San Mateo County’s portion of the recount, election officials accepted seven and rejected nine. Low picked up one vote and Simitian picked up none. Low gained 11 additional votes in Santa Clara County — which covers 80 percent of Congressional District 16, while Simitian gained seven. Originally, the two candidates tied in the March 5 primary.