LEESBURG, Va. — More than a week after election night, Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj conceded in the race against Republican opponent Bob Anderson.
She marked her re-election loss a day after the Loudoun County Office of Elections counted the last ballot, which showed Anderson won against Biberaj by 300 votes. He received 68,068 votes while Biberaj garnered 67,768 votes in what’s considered the closest race for this office in Loudoun County history.
“While the results may not have been what he had hoped for, I'm grateful for the opportunity to have served as Loudoun County Commonwealth's Attorney for the past four years,” Biberaj said.
Since the margin is small, Biberaj qualifies for a recount as soon as the results are certified.
“Even though this race is within the margin for a recount, I will not pursue one in order to conserve taxpayer funds and expand the transition period to better serve the people of Loudoun County,” she said. “I’m proud that we’ve set a new record for the most votes for a Democratic candidate for Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney.”
Biberaj was the first woman elected as the Loudoun Co. Commonwealth’s Attorney, but she’s leaving as a controversial figure among Republicans and Democrats.
She's been criticized over her competence, leadership skills and decision as a prosecutor. The scrutiny includes how her office handled two high-profile sexual assaults by the same student at Loudoun County Public Schools. The father of one of the victims, Scott Smith, held a “Boot Biberaj” signs behind her supporters during her announcement on Tuesday.
Biberaj, however, touted violent crimes being down in the county, having more resources for domestic violence victims and drug prevention, and reducing recidivism.
Anderson, a former Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney, told WUSA9 the night of the final count that he plans to reverse some of her policies including the decision to divert certain misdemeanor cases and non-violent crimes for police to prosecute instead of the office due to resource issues.
“That will be reversed,” Anderson stressed. “The issue isn't whether or not you prosecute them, it's how you get it done.”
Anderson wants more funding to hire investigators for the human trafficking and drug task forces.
“We need to get on with the business of making the changes we need and move forward,” he added.
As far as next steps, Biberaj said her focus is to make the transition as smooth as possible. She has invited Anderson to join the team if he chooses to help with the transition.