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Del. Chris Peace, R-Hanover, announced Monday night that he is abandoning his bid to hold the 97th District seat in the House of Delegates after losing a contentious nomination battle to Hanover County Supervisor Scott Wyatt.

“While our District has witnessed one of the most heated contests in the modern history of the General Assembly, it is time for our part of Virginia to heal and voters to focus on November,” Peace said in a statement posted to his Facebook page late Monday night.

“I have evaluated my options and have concluded that further litigation of this contest does not serve the best interests of the district. The devotion we’ve received from family, friends and supporters is unparalleled; however, it does not necessitate the continuance of this race.

“Scott Wyatt was selected as the Republican nominee. He will help Republicans hold the majority and continue to promote common sense policies that make our Commonwealth the best place to live, work and raise a family.”

There was no immediate comment from Wyatt’s campaign.