The candidate who finished second in the race for Laramie County Sheriff in Tuesday's General Election has posted a statement on his campaign Facebook page.

Jeff Barnes, running as an independent, finished roughly 7 percentage points behind Republican Brian Kozak in the race for sheriff.  Kozak received13,958 votes to 11,889 for Barnes.

On Wednesday morning Barnes posted the following statement on Facebook:

''My whole life has been dedicated to public safety, and I sincerely wanted to continue my service as your Sheriff. While the results weren’t what we hoped for, I pray for a smooth transition, and a bright future for Laramie County.
I want to take this moment to thank my campaign workers for their support and encouragement. For everyone who worked closely with me on this mission- words cannot express my gratitude. Through early mornings and late nights you were with me every step of the way. You will always have a special place in my heart and I will always consider you a part of our family.
To all of those who opened their homes to host interested voters, let me put signs on your property, helped with the various events and offered kind words all along the way you too have my heartfelt thanks.
I may have lost the election, but what I have gained through getting to know all of you is worth far more! I know that power and position don’t lead to a rich life, but that good friends and a loving family do. I am a wealthy man indeed!''

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