Rep. Cliff Stearns was calling supporters on Wednesday to let them know he plans to concede to political novice Ted Yoho, the Tampa Bay Times is reporting.

With all precincts reporting Tuesday evening, Yoho– a veterinarian by trade– had a 829-vote lead over Stearns.

Stearns, who refused to concede last night, apparently called Yoho around noon on Wednesday afternoon to congratulate him.

The 12-term congressman was dealt an upset loss despite having a huge financial advantage and national name recognition. Stearns had about $2 million in the bank at the close of the last reporting period, while Yoho reported having just $130,000 on hand.

As chair of the Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, Stearns spearheaded the GOP investigations into Solyndra and Planned Parenthood.

Yoho will run against Democratic candidate J. R. Gaillot, also a political newcomer, in the newly drawn 3rd district.

Tags | Cliff Stearns, J. R. Gaillot, Ted Yoho