DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Sen. Nate Boulton will not return to the statehouse after conceding the Senate District 20 race to Republican challenger Mike Pike.
Boulton, who currently serves as Minority Whip, requested a recount in the narrow race just last week. At the time, Pike was ahead by just 44 votes.
"By one of the narrowest margins in the state, I will not be returning to the Iowa Senate this January," Boulton said in a statement. "Congratulations to Mike Pike on his electoral victory."
Although Boulton said he lost in the recount, the results have not been officially certified by the state.
Boulton has been a member of the Iowa Senate for the past eight years. He now plans to return to his law practice and focus on spending time with his family.
"I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my constituents, who twice elected me to be their advocate in the legislature. Setbacks are opportunities to take on new challenges," Boulton said. "While this term in the Iowa Senate is ending, I remain dedicated to working towards economic and social justice as we pursue a brighter, stronger future for our community, our state, and our nation."
