Update: Morton wins by one vote

Recount changed totals, not outcome of treasurer's race

Brewster County Democratic Chairwoman Mary Bell Lockhart announced earlier today that incumbent Julie Morton is still the winner of the treasurer’s race following the recount requested by her challenger, Lorene Villanueva.

While the outcome of the race did not change — Morton has been ahead since the primary election on March 1 — the totals did. She had previously held a four-vote lead over Villanueva, 390-386. The total today after the recount committee had finished their work changed to 386-385 for Morton.

Lockhart announced on March 14 that Villanueva had asked for a manual recount and paid an $800 deposit to cover related expenses. If the result had been reversed and Villanueva was declared the winner, she would have received a full refund. Any unused funds will be returned to her.

Morton does not have an opponent in the November general election.

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