Brian Birdwell has won the runoff against David Sibley in the special election race to round out the unexpired term of now-retired Sen. Kip Averitt (R-Waco).

Birdwell's victory comes despite being outraised and outspent by fellow-Republican Sibley. Turnout was down compared to the original runoff May 8, when 29,851 votes were cast. Tonight 24,351 votes were cast.

Ellis County flipped to Birdwell tonight. He also carried Hood and Johnson counties. Sibley, not surprisingly, carried McLennan.

Birdwell got 14,198 votes (57.87 percent), and Sibley 10,333 (42.12 percent).

On May 8, Birdwell got 10,900 to SIbley's 13,423.

More to come on this, in this week's issue.

Here's Gov. Rick Perry's statement on Birdwell's victory:
 

"Anita and I congratulate Brian Birdwell on his victory this evening,” said Gov. Perry. “Brian’s service to our nation as a Gulf War veteran and his solid commitment to conservative values prove he has the experience and leadership necessary to ensure our state continues as an example of good governance for the rest of the nation to follow. I look forward to working with him in our effort to keep Texas at the forefront of the national economy and create a climate that allows business and individuals to thrive."

And Birdwell's:
 

“This is an incredible victory tonight for hard-working conservatives and taxpayers who believed in our message of lower taxes, more freedom, less government and traditional values. I want to thank my many supporters and friends across the district who took a stand for the values that they believe in. I am honored and humbled to serve the great people of this district and they have my word that I will strive to represent them with honor and integrity in Austin. I also want to thank David Sibley for his gracious congratulatory call tonight and for his service to the people of Texas.”

And Sibley's:
 

"I want to thank all of my supporters who voted for me, worked on my behalf and supported me financially. The support I received throughout the district was overwhelming. I would also like to congratulate my opponent and his supporters on their victory.

"While my campaign is over, my commitment to making Texas a better place to live and work will continue for years to come. My wife, Pam, and I have lived in this district for 34 years, and look forward to watching our children and grandchildren live and grow right here in Central Texas."