The democratic incumbent defeated Morgantown businessman John Raese in today's election to win a record ninth term.

Raese, did not make a concession speech, but did concede defeat on the radio network that he owns in Morgantown.

The Morgantown businessman spent roughly $2.2 million of his own money on the race.

In addition to criticizing Byrd's position on the war in Iraq, Raese also suggested the 88-year old Democrat is not physically able to serve out another 6-year term.

Mountain Party candidate Jesse Johnson also challenged Byrd, but didn't run a visible campaign.