Mandatory Recount Ordered in Democratic Commonwealth Court Primary Election

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of the Commonwealth Carol Aichele today ordered, as required by state law, a mandatory recount in the Democratic primary election contest for Judge of the Commonwealth Court.

Unofficial results from across the state indicate the margin between the two candidates is less than one-half of one percent, the threshold at which the mandatory recount is triggered.

As of today, the unofficial returns filed by all 67 counties with the Department of State, show the following results:

• Katherine Boockvar - 311,624 (50.170%)
• Barbara Ernsberger - 309,508 (49.830%)
• Total Number of Votes Cast: 621,132
• Difference: 2,116 (.341%)

The trailing candidate, Barbara Ernsberger, had until 4 p.m. today to waive her right to a recount. Since she did not waive this right, a recount will take place.

"There is nothing more important to our system of government than a transparent election process in which our citizens have confidence," Aichele said. "Mandatory recounts in elections this close help maintain that confidence."

The recount must begin in all counties no later than June 1 and be completed by June 7. County boards of elections must submit the results of their recounts to the Secretary of the Commonwealth by noon on June 8.  Once these final results are received, Aichele will announce the final outcome of the election.

The last statewide recount, in 2009, cost approximately $542,000. This cost will be paid by the commonwealth, as required by state law for mandatory recounts.

Media contact: Ron Ruman, 717-783-1621; 717-877-0417 (cell)

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of State