SouthernWorldwide.com – In a stunningly close election for the mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the two leading candidates are separated by a mere two votes after more than 36,000 ballots were cast.
Christine Erickson, a former South Dakota state representative and one-time Sioux Falls city council member, currently holds a slim lead over state Sen. Jamie Smith. Smith is also a former member of the state House of Representatives.
The vote count stands at 18,280 votes for Erickson and 18,278 votes for Smith, resulting in a razor-thin margin of just two votes.
Although the mayoral race itself is nonpartisan, the political affiliations of the candidates are noted on the South Dakota legislature’s website. Smith is listed as a Democrat, while Erickson, who served in the state House over a decade ago, is listed as a Republican.
Erickson expressed her gratitude to the voters of Sioux Falls in a statement released on Wednesday. She emphasized that every single vote proved to be significant in this election.
“Thank you Sioux Falls! To my family, friends and supporters, I couldn’t have done this without you. This election exemplified that every single vote truly matters,” Erickson stated. “To the people of Sioux Falls, even with a close margin, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to lead Sioux Falls forward for the next four years.”
Erickson also acknowledged the likelihood of a recount and expressed confidence in the process. She indicated that her team is prepared to ensure the recount is conducted with fairness, accuracy, and transparency.
“Even though the polls have closed, the fight continues. We know there will be a recount and I feel confident going into this next phase. My team and I are prepared to make sure the recount moves forward fairly with accuracy and transparency,” she continued.
She extended congratulations to Jamie Smith for his hard-fought campaign and expressed optimism about the future of Sioux Falls. Erickson reiterated her commitment to leading with common sense and ensuring city government serves the residents effectively.
“Congratulations also to Jamie for a hard fought campaign. Sioux Falls has a bright future, and we will come together to make sure our community thrives today and for generations to come. My promise is the same as it was on day one of this campaign: I will lead with common sense and make sure city government serves you, the people. I’m excited to get to work,” she concluded.
