Ron Johnson has declared victory over Mandela Barnes, issuing a statement this morning that reads:

“The corporate media is refusing to call a race that is over.
“The votes are in. In all Democrat strongholds, municipalities are reporting 100% of wards are in and counted. There are some counties that have anywhere from 3-10% of the votes outstanding. These localities represent areas where we are winning by over 60%.
“There is no path mathematically for Lt. Gov. Barnes to overcome his 27,374 vote deficit. This race is over.
“Truth has prevailed over lies and the politics of personal destruction. I want to thank my family and everyone who supported me and worked so hard to save this U.S. Senate seat. I will do everything I can to help make things better for Wisconsinites and to heal and unify our country.”

While many national media sources have the populous Democrat stronghold of Milwaukee showing 95% reporting, the Milwaukee County Clerk’s website reveals 100% reporting. In the hours following Johnson’s declaration, NBC News, CNN, and ABC announced Johnson as the victor.

Given the race’s closeness (within a percentage point), I think the most explanation for the delay was that outlets did their due diligence in ensuring everything was in order before announcing. Both candidates have spent tens of thousands of dollars on legal consultants, and it would be best for all involved to verify everything thoroughly before making a final announcement.

Given these announcements, Barnes should concede promptly, especially because of his criticisms of Republican election denial following the 2020 election. Whether he can accept defeat with the equanimity he expects of his opponents is a question that today will answer. We’ll find out more at 1 pm EST, as Barnes is scheduled to hold a press conference.