Votes being recounted in state District 135 race

A manual recount began early this morning for the winner of the State House of Representatives District 135 seat. The decision was announced yesterday. 

Newcomer Betsy Fogle, a Democrat, held just an 80-vote lead over Republican incumbent Steve Helms, according to Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller’s office.  

“It has been determined a recount will occur, as the difference between the two top vote getters is less than one-half of 1%,” Schoeller said via email. “The code of state regulations calls for a manual recount anytime the percentage margin of difference is equal to or less than one-half of 1%.” 

Ballot sorting began at 6 a.m. this morning at the Greene County Elections Center and tabulation began at 8 a.m. at University Plaza Convention Center, according to a news release. The recount is being performed by bipartisan teams and is open to the public.