Ohio GOP House candidate accidentally releases concession statement before polls close

A Republican candidate for an Ohio House seat accidentally released a concession statement on Tuesday before the polls closed.

Derek Myers is one of 11 candidates in the party primary hoping to replace GOP Rep. Brad Wenstrup, who is not seeking reelection. The campaign message went out after 3 p.m. eastern, saying "[t]onight did not go as we had hoped," The Hill reported.

"Attention Press: My campaign comms team has sent out an email in error as we prepare for both possible outcomes tonight. The polls remain open until 7:30 p.m. Please disregard the email. Thank you," he posted on X.

Myers confirmed that he had drafted both a concession and victory message, but that the concession email had been sent rather than saved as a draft. 

"Anyone who works in communications knows it’s not uncommon to have speeches and releases prepared in the event of each outcome, especially on such an impotent night. It’s simply good strategy," he said. "Whatever the results return this evening, I’ll be thankful for this journey. And yes, the media will be getting a release sometime after the results roll in, declaring a victory or concession."

Wenstrup announced in November that he would not seek reelection, having served since early 2013. The 2nd District that he represents is solidly Republican and the winner of Tuesday's primary is likely to become the next representative.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.