CRYSTAL, Minn. — A Minnesota city council race appears to be a textbook example of the old adage that "every vote counts" in an election.
The Ward 3 city council race in Crystal wrapped up on election night with the thinnest of razor-thin margins: with a single vote separating the two candidates. Incumbent city council member John Budziszewski received 1,129 votes, while challenger Wade Girard received 1,128.
Under state law, Girard was entitled to ask for a recount.
In a statement, Crystal city officials said Thursday's recount confirmed the original results: Budziszewski with 1,129 votes and Girard with 1,128, a difference of one vote.
The Crystal City Council is set to meet Thursday afternoon to canvass and certify the 2024 election results, which also include the mayor and three additional council seats. Their four-year terms begin in January.
Additional recounts are underway in other close contests elsewhere across Minnesota, including a legislative race in the southwest metro that could decide control of the Minnesota House of Representatives.