Returns: Becker concedes to McCarthy, sends $$ pitch

Nassau Legis. Francis X. Becker (R-Lynbrook), who early in the night appeared to have a sizable lead over Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-Mineola), just now conceded to the now-eight-term congresswoman while making this fundraising pitch to his supporters:

"The morning did not improve our standing in the results. We knew getting into this race that it was going to be tough but we had so many people working so hard we thought it could be won. We wanted to be part of the Republican revolution that swept the country last night but it seems like that was not God's plan.

"Unfortunately, even though the campaign ends the bills will keep coming in. If you have within your means to help Fran and Clem at this time and give to our campaign we would be very grateful. We will keep you posted on any future plans or developments."

This could mean one of two things: That Becker is already planning a 2012 run or (more likely) that in the final weeks, when it appeared the race was tighening, the campaign spent money it didn't have or Becker and his family lent the campaign a significant amount of money.

At nearly the same time, McCarthy declared victory:

"I’m proud to have helped thousands of constituents in my district office and millions of Americans with the legislation that I’ve written and helped pass. I'm grateful for all the support I've gotten over the years and during this race.

"Now, I look forward to continuing that work and the challenges ahead: making sure that our economy continues to bounce back and continuing the tradition of bipartisanship that has allowed me to be successful under both Democratic and Republican leadership."