Following a delay, Dutchess County Board of Elections commissioners began the arduous task of tallying paper ballots on Nov. 14. Their findings will determine the final results in the Nov. 6 general election and could swing several close races.
Unofficial results from the polling machines suggest a dramatic shift in the Dutchess County Legislature from Republican to Democratic Party control for the first time in 30 years. If unofficial results hold, Democrats now stand to take control with a 14-11 lead.
While Democratic majority does not appear at stake, results from several close races ride on absentee and other paper ballots. Diane Nash (D-Hyde Park) is ahead by 36 votes, but there are 91 absentee ballots and a couple dozen affidavit and emergency votes that could potentially catapult her opponent, Robert Clearwater (R) into the lead.
In Dover, voters favored Democratic newcomer Pete Wassell at the polls by 33 votes, but more than 100 absentee and paper ballots could return Timothy Bastings to the seat. Democratic Commissioner Frances Knapp said that Rick Keller-Coffey’s lead in the Town of Poughkeepsie after recanvassing does not put his seat in jeopardy.
“I think the Democrats should feel comfortable with their lead,” said Knapp.
In the City of Poughkeepsie, unofficial results show mayoral candidate Fred Knapp behind by 318 votes, making a reversal with absentee ballots unlikely.
Apparent mayor-elect John Tkazyik (R) said, “The process is taking its course.” He added, “We’re confident in our numbers. The support has been overwhelming. There’s not enough paper out there mathematically to change the outcome. I’m looking forward to putting my new administration together.” Fred Knapp did not return a call seeking comment.
Two close races for seats on the City of Poughkeepsie’s Common Council are still up in the air, though majority control will go to Democrats. Incumbent Thomas Parise (R-1st Ward) was ahead of Frank Clark (D) at the polls by 20 votes, but at least 58 paper ballots were yet to be tallied at press time.
In the 8th Ward, Democratic incumbent Dennis Weinel was leading Republican Paul Herman by six votes, though there were 39 absentee and 11 affidavit ballots yet to count, according to Frances Knapp.
Knapp blamed her Republican counterpart David Gamache for a delay in counting the paper ballots, which she said must be reviewed while allowing the candidate or candidate’s representative to sit at the table. “I stood my ground (that the candidates must be permitted to observe) and there was a stalemate for quite some time,” said Knapp.
Gamache could not be reached for comment on deadline.