Cooper 'Cautiously Optimistic' in Ninth Assembly Race

November 4, 2014 |

Although he wasn't prepared to declare victory, Elk Grove Vice Mayor Jim Cooper said he was "cautiously optimistic" about his chances in the California Assembly Ninth District race.

Jim Cooper (center), celebrates his lead with some of

the several dozen supporters gather in Elk Grove. 

Cooper, who is facing fellow Democrat, Sacramento City Council Member Darrell Fong, is leading with 55.3-percent of the votes with about 79-percent of precincts district-wide at least partially reporting. Fong currently has 19,433 votes, or 44.7-percent.

At a boisterous campaign party held at Elk Grove's Paesano's restaurant, Cooper said he was pleased with the results as of 11 p.m Tuesday. Although he was not ready to declare victory, Cooper said possibly before the end of the night he would be more assured.

"It's been a tough, long race, and we are all glad it is winding down," Cooper said.