Topsail-Paradise District Recount Confirms PC Victory for Dinn

UPDATE: The district of Topsail-Paradise has officially confirmed its representation by the Progressive Conservatives, as Paul Dinn secures victory following a recount that began early on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, and concluded on Friday, July 14, 2023.

In an urgent announcement, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer declared Dinn the winner with 3,029 votes, a mere four votes more than the initial count on election night. The Liberal candidate Dan Bobbett garnered 2,923 votes, solidifying Dinn’s position in the district.

The recount was initiated after Justice Alphonsus Faour granted the Liberal party’s request, despite rejecting two other recount requests. A dozen individuals, including candidate lawyers and officials from Elections Newfoundland and Labrador, witnessed the meticulous counting of over 6,300 ballots.

The implications of this recount are significant for both parties. Dinn’s narrow victory reinforces the Progressive Conservatives’ hold on the district, while Bobbett’s campaign will need to regroup after this close defeat.

Historically, recounts can be contentious; for instance, a similar recount occurred in 2019 for the district of Labrador West, where counting 3,200 ballots took over two days.

As the political landscape continues to shift in Newfoundland and Labrador, all eyes are now on the next steps for both parties. Voter engagement remains high, and the outcomes of these elections will undoubtedly influence future campaigns.

Stay informed with the latest updates by downloading our free news app and signing up for daily alerts. This developing story highlights the importance of every vote in shaping local governance.