A recount is underway in the Anchorage Assembly District 4 race between Janice Park and Dave Donley, with a mere 26 votes separating the candidates.

Recount Details

The recount will begin Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the Municipality of Anchorage Election Center, located at 619 E. Ship Creek Avenue, Door D. The process is open to public observation.

As of the current tally, Janice Park holds a narrow lead with 46.5% of the 39,935 votes cast, compared to Dave Donley’s 46.2%. The lead has shifted throughout the counting process since the April 7th municipal election.

Ballot Review and Invalid Votes

Prior to scheduling the recount, the Election Commission reviewed ballots initially rejected by election staff. A total of 815 ballots were deemed invalid due to issues such as late postmarks, returns received after polls closed, and improper voter registration.

Commissioner Loren Leman, a former Lieutenant Governor, highlighted the importance of voter education, particularly regarding signature verification, to prevent ballot rejections.

Other Election Results

Several other Assembly races have been decided. Sydney Scout will replace Christopher Constant in District 1, securing 55.4% of the vote. Donald Handeland will represent Eagle River in District 2, winning 55.3% of the vote.

Anna Brawley will continue representing District 3, defeating Brian Flynn with 53.1% of the vote. George Martinez retained his seat in District 5 with 56.5% of the vote, and Zac Johnson will continue representing District 6 with 46.3% of the vote.

Bond Measure Failures

Despite the close Assembly race, voters rejected all bond measures on the ballot. Propositions 1 and 9, totaling $91 million for school improvements, were defeated. Bonds for police facilities, parks, transportation, and the performing arts also failed to gain approval.

The Election Commission will reconvene on Monday at 2 p.m. to present the recount findings. The election results will be formally certified on Tuesday, with newly elected Assembly members sworn into office.