The Virginia Beach Registrar has certified its election results, calling several close Virginia Beach City Council races more than a week after the midterms.
Louis Jones beat Brad Martin by .35 percent, John Moss beat Dee Oliver by .14 percent, and David Nygaard beat John Uhrin by .14 percent
Candidates who lose an election by 0.5 percent can request a recount within 10 days of the election results. Virginia does not have an automatic recount system.
Virginia Beach General Registrar Donna Patterson said these were some of the closest local election races the City of Virginia Beach has seen in quite some time.
“We’ve had recounts before but not the possibility of three in one, on one ballot,” said Patterson. “So this is different.”
Patterson also attributed to close races to high voter participation.
“I’ve seen this in presidential but not in the midterms, so the numbers and the amount of voters that are interested, I think when we have a chance to look at the numbers, you’ll see historic numbers,” said Patterson.
13NewsNow spoke with David Nygaard, who beat incumbent John Uhrin by 212 votes. He received his election certificate Wednesday morning.
“I feel amazing,” said Nygaard. “I’m honored my team is excited about the results, and you know, we worked really hard for this and we’re thrilled.”
13NewsNow couldn’t reach Uhrin for comment but Nygaard said he’s prepared for a recount.
“I think our process is so solid, I don’t think you’re going to see different results,” said Nygaard. “I hope not, but we would obviously respect the process. I mean that’s his right, that’s their right.”
Brad Martin said he plans on requesting a recount. Dee Oliver said she is “keeping her options open,” and learning more about the recount process.
Patterson said the city is responsible for paying for the recount and as of Wednesday, she does not have an idea of how much it will cost.
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