U.S. House District 45 Race: Derek Tran defeats incumbent Michelle Steel

LOS ANGELES - Three weeks after the election, Democrat Derek Tran is claiming victory in the race for U.S. Congress in District 45. 

The Associated Press officially called the race at 1:03 p.m. on Nov. 27.

Tran defeated Republican incumbent Michelle Steel by just 613 votes. 

Tran secured 157,960 votes (50.1%) and Steel secured 157,347 (49.9%).

In his statement declaring victory on Monday, Tran called the win a "testament to the spirit and resilience of our community."

"Throughout this campaign, I heard from voters who wanted representation that prioritizes our community's unique challenges," he said.

"From the need for affordable healthcare and housing to the importance of an economy that includes everyone, people here are looking to the future with hope and determination. I look forward to representing that optimism and working tirelessly to ensure that our communities' voices are heard in Washington."

Steel conceded defeat Wednesday saying, "I owe a debt of gratitude to my supporters, my staff, my family, my daughters and especially my husband, Shawn, for standing by me through endless campaigns. To my volunteers, we would never have made it this far without your tireless efforts. And, to the voters, thank you. I will never stop fighting for you."

"From the moment I came to the United States, I knew that giving back to the country that welcomed me with open arms would be part of my future," Steel wrote in a statement. "Because of the opportunities offered by this great country, and God's great blessings, I was able to go to college, start a family, and build my own American Dream. I embarked on a mission to assist First Generation Americans, stand up to our adversaries, and defend human rights.

The 45th district includes parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties.