U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes became the first candidate in 52 years to be elected to a fourth term in the 5th Congressional District. The incumbent Democrat beat challenger George Logan by about 20,000 votes in a rematch of the 2022 race, which she won by less than one percentage point.

“I want to unburden you with ever having to say I only won by 2,000 votes because that is no longer true,” Hayes said with a laugh as she spoke to reporters Wednesday at her campaign headquarters in Waterbury.

Despite Hayes’ joke, this race was a contentious one, attracting national attention and money because it was so close last time and will help determine which party controls the U.S. House.

“These political contests have gotten to the point they have a visceral nature. And this race really came down to the people in this district trusting me to continue this work, and I think that's what was more satisfying about it,” Hayes stated, crediting the relationships she’s built with constituents as a reason she overcame attack ads.

Hayes also touted her campaign’s work, saying her team brought in a lot of first-time voters.

“We really targeted places where we were trying to drive up turnout and every one of those places showed up,” Hayes explained. “So many people owned a piece of this victory, and that's the part that's satisfying.”

But Hayes admitted her win was “bittersweet.” Hayes became Connecticut’s first Black congresswoman with her election in 2018. She’d been hoping to celebrate another historic win with the election of Vice President Kamala Harris to the White House.

“I'm heartbroken by the outcome, but I asked for this job, and I have work to do,” Hayes told reporters, adding she knows it won’t be easy.

Though the state’s congressional delegation remains all blue, Republicans will control the Senate and are on track to take the House. Hayes said that will change her strategy but not her mission, including the push for women’s reproductive rights.

“I've had legislation signed into law under President Trump and President Biden. I have worked with a majority in the house and a minority in the house and been able to get things done, so you pick and choose your battles,” Hayes said. The former National Teacher of the Year said she'll use the skills she learned from her time in education to get wins for the district wherever she can.

“Politics is definitely different than teaching, but there are some through lines. You have to listen to people. There is a part of their success that you're responsible for, which is much like the classroom,” Hayes explained. “I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned about what the future looks like, but I remain confident. I have faith in people. That's what being a teacher teaches you.”

Logan posted a statement on social media early Wednesday morning conceding the race.

“I just spoke with Congresswoman Jahana Hayes and congratulated her on a hard-fought victory,” Logan said. “I want to take this opportunity to thank my family, friends, supporters and staff who have been by my side for the last three years and especially the people of the 5th Congressional District. It has been an extremely rewarding experience to meet you and your families, and enjoy the vibrant communities that span our 41 towns.”