16th Congressional District race results

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- It appears the race for the 16th Congressional District is headed for a runoff.

Democratic incumbent Jim Costa is in the lead with 53 percent of the vote and 85 percent of precincts reporting.

Republican candidate Johnny Tacherra, a local dairyman, is trailing with 33 percent.

He lost to Costa in a close race two years ago. Meanwhile, Costa is in Washington.

"I look forward to it," Costa said. "I always put my trust and faith in voters of our valley. I listen, I work every day on their behalf."

"After the last election and losing by a small margin," Tacherra said. "The support from phone calls, people say we need you again."

Tacherra lost by 3 votes per precinct in the last election.

Both candidates say they will continue focusing on issues like water, the drought, and healthcare reform.