Pratt, Fillmore complete GOP sweep in LD23

Republicans picked up a House seat and a Senate seat in Legislative District 23, a traditionally Democratic stronghold.

“History is about to be made,” said Republican John Fillmore, referring to a GOP sweep of all legislative offices in a district that has been home to the Rios political dynasty.

Republican Steve Smith defeated Sen. Rebecca Rios in the Senate race by nearly 4,700 votes.

The four-way House contest was a rematch of 2008, but this time Rep. Barbara McGuire, a two-time Democratic incumbent and top vote-getter in 2008, fell significantly behind Fillmore in the final, unofficial tally.

Rep. Frank Pratt, a Republican incumbent, led all candidates with 27,328 votes, while Democrat Ernest Bustamante finished in last place.

Republicans spent $15,225 in independent expenditures against each Democrat candidate in the last week of October.

Fillmore said he has spoken with the Pratt and Smith about governing.

“We’re looking forward to acting united,” Fillmore said.