One of the closest local midterm races is now over, as incumbent Brad Schneider run for re-election 10th District congressman ends in disappointment for the Democratic Party.

Rep. Robert Dold will take over after receiving roughly 7,000 more votes than incumbent Brad Schneider, who won the hearts of the middle class during his time in office.

“He’s really such a genuine man,” said Gayle Levine of Glenview. “I had Brad over to my house for coffee a few times and his humility and simple approach to life was always refreshing. We’re all extremely sad to see him go.”

The two candidates are no strangers, as they faced off in 2012 — with Schneider edging out Dold by about 3,000 votes.

In addition to facing off for the second time, the two made history with their extreme campaign budgets.

Combined, they spent upwards of $15 million on TV advertisements alone, making it the second-highest for Illinois congressional campaigns of all time.

Schneider, who centered his campaign around continued benefits for the middle class, establishing an efficient environment and pushing for sustained energy was grateful when addressing the roughly 200 supporters at the Hilton in Northbrook, while making it a point to praise those who’ve been by his side.

“Our campaign has exceeded everyone’s expectations, on every level,” he said. “I wouldn’t be here without my parents, who’re here tonight. The values, the fortitude, and the sense of ‘what to fight for’ that they instilled in me are things that I’m forever grateful for.”

The banquet hall seemed anxious, yet positive all night long.

Many supporters were optimistic even when the numbers weren’t looking great, a testament to Schneider and the type of people he had, and still has in his corner.

Schneider, a longtime business man who founded the one-man-firm Cadence Consulting group remains in an outstanding position to fight for what he believes in,while helping others who share those beliefs.