As 3rd District Recount Looms, Trahan Says Her Vote Margin Has Doubled

(File photograph)

Democrat Lori Trahan was flanked by former opponents Rep. Juana Matias, left, and Sen. Barbara L’Italien, right, during a “Women for Lori” rally Saturday in Lowell. (Courtesy photograph.)

While a formal recount of Democratic ballots cast in the 3rd Congressional District could take place this week, candidate Lori Trahan said this weekend her vote count has more than doubled.

Trahan, who declared victory last week with a 52-vote lead, said newly certified results from city and town clerks, has increased her margin over Dan Koh by 131 votes. The certified results now include provisional ballots cast. Trahan offered remarks during her “Women for Lori” rally Saturday in Lowell.

“A big part of campaigning is about building trust with the people you will represent in Washington. I believe it is vital for everyone to have confidence in the result of this week’s primary, and I respect the right of the Koh campaign to pursue a recount,” Trahan said. She added, “But I continue to believe that when all the votes are counted again, I will remain the Democratic nominee for Congress.”

She said the short final election campaign against Republican Rick Green requires her to continue running.

Trahan was joined in her rally by her former opponents state Sen. Barbara L’Italien, state Rep. Juana Matias, and Bopha Malone.

Last Friday morning, the Koh campaign confirmed it would file for a recount. “We want the process to progress as swiftly as possible so that the ultimate nominee will have adequate time and resources to win in November.”

Meanwhile, in an email to supporters Sunday, L’Italien said, “I have no regrets about running for Congress.”

“This race may not have gone the way we hoped, and I may not be headed to Washington to fight the Trump Administration,” she added, “but I want to promise you one thing: I’m still going to make plenty of trouble and speak up on behalf of those that need a voice.”

Green said he supports a quick recount, but warned against “a power grab by either side.”

The final election takes place Tuesday Nov.6 with the ultimate Democratic contender challenging Green and independent Mike Mullen to fill the seat left vacant by retiring Niki Tsongas.