West refuses to concede, citing 'irregularities'

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Congressman Allen West is refusing to concede, saying there are "disturbing irregularities" at the polls.

The Republican's campaign manager said Wednesday "there is no rush to declare an outcome" in the race against Patrick Murphy. He says a recount is necessary.

According to an unofficial tally, political newcomer Murphy has a 2,456-vote lead. That margin of about three-quarters of a percentage point is outside the parameters for a state-mandated recount.

West is a freshman Republican known across the country for his fiery tea party rhetoric. Twenty-nine-year-old Murphy is a construction executive making his first run for office.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)