Republican Rep. Brian Bilbray was leading Democrat Scott Peters 50.5 percent to 49.5 percent in one of the most expensive and closely watched congressional races in California.

Bilbray was leading Peters with about 70 percent of the vote reported in the redrawn 52nd District contest, according to figures released by the county registrar shortly before midnight.

“This is a tough race. Everyone knew it was a tough race,” Bilbray said late Tuesday, flanked by his wife and two of his children. “It’s great to see family, friends and supporters willing to say one more time, ‘Brian, take your shot and get in there.’”