Republican candidates observe recount for two primary races at state Capitol

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) — A recount of two Republican primary races is underway at the Hawaii State Capitol, with elections officials saying the process could extend into Wednesday due to the volume of ballots being reviewed.

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The recount began at 9 a.m. Tuesday and was scheduled to run until 9 p.m. The two races being recounted are separated by margins of one and seven votes.

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Senate District 20

In the Senate District 20 race, Republican candidate Bob McDermott holds a seven-vote lead over incumbent Sen. Kurt Fevella of Ewa Beach.

Fevella sat quietly in the Senate gallery Tuesday and did not speak to the media. McDermott was subdued.

“It’s all in God’s hands so we try to keep it even keel over everything,” McDermott said. “If you let it get to you — either side — because there’s no final outcome yet.”

House District 43

In the House District 43 race covering Kapolei and Makakilo, state Rep. Kanani Souza leads challenger Sheila Medeiros by one vote.

Souza attended the recount and took detailed notes.

“I’m great and I’m just here to observe the process,” Souza said. “By law, we have the opportunity as a candidate to be here, so I’m looking forward to the results.”

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Medeiros also attended and said the outcome is in God’s hands.

“I was at peace with the result because my rainbow word during this entire election campaign was all for one,” Medeiros said.

Recount process

Ballots previously counted are stored in plastic-wrapped cages on the Senate floor. Elections workers stage the boxes at the back of the chamber, then feed the ballots through a scanning machine.

Rep. Diamond Garcia, minority floor leader, said the wait has been difficult for those involved.

“I think we are all just waiting for the final printout to come out so we can get this over with,” Garcia said. “This limbo time between the third printing out and the curing of ballots and the recount — there’s major anxiety. I couldn’t imagine for the candidates.”

Final results timeline

State Chief Election Officer Scott Nago said he was too busy with the recount to be interviewed Tuesday, but on Monday noted the margins are historically narrow.

“I have not seen a one vote difference. That’s a first for me,” Nago said Monday.

Even after recount results are announced, he said a final result is not expected until after 4:30 p.m. Friday, when ballots with invalid signatures must be returned.

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View all election night coverage here.