New Hanover Co. election results in close races have the potential to change

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY)— The election canvass in New Hanover County is expected to be finalized Thursday by the board of elections.

Tuesday, the board met to discuss the review process.

Elections Director Derek Bowens said there are enough provisional ballots and supplemental absentee ballots that could potentially change the results in a close race.

He said if that’s the case a candidate could ask for a recount. A recount could take about a day because there were more than 37,000 ballots cast on Election Day alone.

Bowens  gave the example of the New Hanover County Commissioners race. Beth Dawson and Derrick Hickey were separated by fewer than 400 votes. Hickey edged out Dawson but if Dawson is brought within 190 votes after the canvass she can request a recount.

When we spoke with Dawson last week she said she would pursue a recount if she was given the chance.

Bowens adds there are extended canvasses throughout the state.