MILWAUKEE (NBC 26) — Republican gubernatorial candidate Tim Michels took the stage at the Italian Community Center in downtown Milwaukee early Wednesday morning to concede the race to Democratic Incumbent Governor Tony Evers.
The tone in the room from Michels supporters and guests gradually went from excitement — with loud cheers, roars, and "U-S-A!" chants — to disappointment, as they felt that their candidate would not win the Wisconsin governor's seat.
Guests were told to gather near the podium into the midnight hour. Michels took the stage a short time later to announce his concession to Evers.
"I love this state with all my heart," Michels said. "You know, in hindsight looking back, I don't know what we would've done differently. It was a very spirited effort. I love going everywhere from Superior to Kenosha, Sheboygan to La Crosse...But it wasn't our night tonight. And I thank everybody for all of your support. God bless. Thank you."
Hundreds of Michels supporters showed up to his watch party.
Guests left the Italian Community Center at around 1 a.m.
