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US Rep William Jefferson Wins Re-Election In Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS (AP)--U.S. Rep. William Jefferson easily defeated his fellow Democratic opponent in Saturday's runoff, despite an ongoing federal bribery investigation.

With 38% of the precincts reporting, Jefferson, Louisiana's first black congressman since Reconstruction, led with 60% of the vote over state Rep. Karen Carter.

Carter was unable to capitalize on a scandal that included allegations the FBI found $90,000 in bribe money in Jefferson's freezer.

In a concession speech, Carter embraced family members and pledged to work with Jefferson, especially on the area's recovery from Hurricane Katrina.

"I guess the people are happy with the status-quo," she said.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires
12-09-062357ET
Copyright (c) 2006 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.