Both of the top vote-getting candidates in the Republican primary for Michigan’s 1st Congressional District claimed victory early today, the margin separating them so close
that it almost certainly means a recount to decide which of them will take on Democratic state Rep. Gary McDowell in November.
According to the Michigan Secretary of State’s Web site, political newcomer Dr. Dan Benishek of Crystal Falls led state Sen. Jason Allen of Alanson by a single vote, 27,091-to-27,090. The Associated Press’ tally had the difference only a little larger – Benishek led by 12 votes out of some 71,000 cast.
The AP said all precincts had reported; the Secretary of State’s office made no such claim.
Benishek, in an early morning news release, said he’d won, claiming “a major victory for grassroot conservatives across the 1st Congressional District.” Allen’s campaign, meanwhile, said it had “won the election outright” based on the numbers it had calculated.
Full story: One vote separates 1st District competitors | freep.com | Detroit Free Press