“It’s been a long campaign and its a relief to have it over and to have won is very humbling and exciting and I’m looking forward to serving all the people of the 38th district to the best of my ability,” McBroom said in an interview this morning. “Thank you to the folks who have supported me through this and helped out and I’m so grateful fo the trust people have given me.”

Dianda, who is is currently the state House representative for the 110th District, issued a statement conceding the race to McBroom early this morning.

“It has been a privilege to serve my constituents in the 110th State House District, and it was a privilege to meet voters during my campaign for 38th State Senate. I couldn’t be prouder of the campaign we have run and the hard-working team of volunteers who knocked doors, made calls, and helped us get out the vote,” Dianda wrote in the statement. “I’ve called and congratulated Ed McBroom on his victory in this race to represent the people of the Upper Peninsula. I wish him the best as he works to fix our roads, clean up our drinking water, and restore funding to public education in the State of Michigan.”

Roberts issued a statement thanking his supporters and outlining future plans.

State Rep. Scott Dianda, D-Calumet

“My sincere thanks to the 1,837 people who voted their convictions and followed their conscience in support of this campaign.In this political climate of unlimited PAC contributions; my Democratic opponent spent roughly $10 per vote and our clean Green campaign spent less than a dime,” Roberts wrote in a statement issued to The Mining Journal this morning. “I urge you all to reach out; I am forming a new Green Party local, the UPGP that will be the next chapter of Green Party history in the Upper Peninsula as we work together to return Michigan’s state government back to its people. May Peace be with you all.”

McBroom will fill the seat currently held by term-limited Sen. Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba. McBroom will be sworn in Jan. 1 and be limited to two four-year terms in office.

The 38th District encompasses much of the Upper Peninsula, including all Upper Peninsula counties except Chippewa, Luce and Mackinac.

The election results are not official until the Board of Canvassers meets at 1 p.m. today, according to Marquette County Clerk Linda Talsma.