After Contesting Michigan Election Results, John James Concedes

MICHIGAN — John James, the Republican nominee for Senate, conceded to incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Gary Peters Tuesday night after initially contesting Michigan election results.

In a post on his Twitter page, James said it was time for him to congratulate Peters on his victory. James said he would be sending the senator a bottle of scotch — the same brand the two had shared at a Detroit Pistons game previously.

"The 2020 battle for this Senate seat is over," James said. "As we continue to fight for our republic, remember the battle is not ours, but the Lord's. And our enemy is not our fellow Americans."

Peters has not released a statement regarding James' announcement, but did post to Twitter on Monday — the day election results in Michigan were certified by the state board of canvassers — that the election is final.

"Michiganders made their voices heard in a secure and fair election," he said. "The certification of these results upholds the will of voters in all 83 counties.

"The election is over. It's time to move forward and come together to address the pressing challenges we're facing."

The race between James and Peters shattered fundraising records in Michigan, with the total spending between the two campaigns potentially topping $100 million, according to Michigan Advance.

The change caught the attention of Trump, who called into question the ballots.

"Wow! It looks like Michigan has now found the ballots necessary to keep a wonderful young man, John James, out of the U.S. Senate," he tweeted. "What a terrible thing is happening!"

James initially joined Trump in questioning the validity of ballots, but his tone changed earlier this week, when he posted a video on Twitter saying that a review of election results would likely not change the results of his race but could reveal other issues.

"Congratulations, sir," James told Peters in his most recent message. "I wish you and your family good health and safety this season and in the new year."