The state canvassing board will be asked to certify the candidacy of Deborah Hedlund on Sunday, Sept. 21 to face candidate Lorie Gildea in the Nov. 4 general election race for associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Ritchie reported that no challenged ballots have been reported throughout the entire state in the recount. Preliminary results indicate that Hedlund received 1,341 votes more than the third place candidate Jill Clark.
"To my knowledge, this is the fastest statewide manual recount ever done in America," stated Ritchie. "Since all Minnesotans vote on paper ballots we are able to confirm the outcome of our elections through this process, unlike some states who do not vote on paper ballots."
The Office of the Secretary of State enlisted the assistance of county auditors and some city clerks in this effort. The recount took place across the state in over 100 locations.
"I am extremely proud of the work and professionalism displayed by county and local officials during this recount process," Ritchie said. "Their diligence and cooperation have kept this election year on track. Thanks to their efforts absentee ballots will be ready for distribution on time."
Statewide results, including those from the recount in the Independence Party house district 3A primary race, will be presented for consideration at the official meeting of the state canvassing board that will be convened by the secretary of state on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 1:00 in Room 15 in the State Capitol.
