BATAVIA, N.Y. — David Bellavia gave credit to his opponent, Chris Collins, in defeat Tuesday night.

Bellavia thanked supporters and said that he carried six of the eight counties in the newly-formed 27th Congressional District.

Collins carried Erie and Niagara, while Bellavia carried the rural areas in the eastern half of the district. Bellavia did receive more votes than Collins in Orleans, Ontario, Monroe, Livingston and Genesee counties. Bellavia lives in Genesee County.

Bellavia said it was tough to overcome the monetary advantages the Collins campaign had.

When asked if there are any more political runs in his future, he said, "Whatever's in the future is in the future. I just want to serve my country. That's all I've ever wanted to do, and I look forward to serving my country in whatever avenue I take."

David Bellavia supporters have been filing in since 8 tonight. His campaign manager says while there weren't as many voters at the polls as they expected, they are still confident of a win.

They say Bellavia has been out talking with taxpayers compared to his opponent, Chris Collins, who camp officials claim has the advantage when it comes to campaign funding.

Right now, Bellavia is upstairs in a separate room waiting for returns to come in.

The mood is relaxed at David Bellavia's election headquarters in Batavia. Guests are expected to start coming in around 8.

The Iraq War veteran is taking on Chris Collins, the former Erie County Executive, for the 27th Congressional District. His camp says voter turnout has been really light; a touch better than the Repubican presidential primary earlier this year.

While campaigning, Bellavia said he's made it a point to focus on each person he meets.

"The bottom up approach is what's made us successful this time. It's talking to committee members talking to people in towns and really focusing on the individual voter," said Bellavia.

Bellavia will be watching the returns Tuesday night in Batavia with his supporterse.