Simplified: In a true nail-biter of a race, just two votes separated Christine Erickson and Jamie Smith when the results were reported around midnight Tuesday. It's too close to call as we await a recount.

Why it matters

  • Erickson and Smith faced off in the run-off Tuesday after leading what was initially a field of five candidates in the June 2 election. In that race, Erickson took 37% of the vote compared to Smith's 28%, but since neither candidate clinched the requisite 50%, it went to a run-off.
  • And a lot has happened in the three weeks since then – including big endorsements on both sides, more money raised by both candidates and just a whole lot of campaigning all around.
  • Erickson's supporters were celebratory Tuesday night after the results came in.
"This right here shows why every single vote matters," Erickson said to a room of cheers. "Tonight we are going to celebrate. However, we know this isn't over yet. We anticipate a recount, and we hope that these results stay true."
  • Meanwhile, just across the river, Smith addressed another room full of cheering supporters.
"This is not over," Smith said. "I want you to know we are not conceding. There will be a recount."

What happens next?

Good question – it's one we'll have more clarity on hopefully Wednesday.

Keloland reported there were five provisional ballots that had yet to be counted, which could swing the race one way or another.

And then, there's the matter of the recount, which cannot even be formally requested until after the election results are canvassed by the City Council. It's not immediately clear when that happens and what that recount looks like.

  • According to the recount manual on the Secretary of State's website, the city has 10 days to conduct the recount after it's been requested.

Once this is all settled, the new mayor is supposed to be sworn in July 17.

  • It's also unclear if that timeline is impacted by any of this because, frankly, all of these questions arose after midnight, and there's no city folks around to answer questions that late. I'll keep you guys posted as we learn more.