Ocean City Council candidate asks for recount in two-vote election

Ocean City Council Candidate Amie Vaules released the following statement contesting the May 14 3rd Ward Council election in which incumbent Jody Levchuk had 402 votes and Vaules had 400.

On May 14, the voters of the 3rd Ward in Ocean City participated in an important election that symbolizes the democratic process. I am grateful to everyone who exercised their right to vote and participated in this pivotal event, and I am humbled by the support I received.

Today, I am formally contesting the vote count in the 3rd Ward election. This decision has not been made lightly and is based on my deep respect for the process and my personal commitment to ensuring the integrity and transparency of our electoral process.  I appreciate Mr. Levchuk’s service to the community and will respect results after a thorough review … this is about making sure everybody’s vote counts. Several factors have contributed to this decision:

1. Extremely Narrow Margin of Victory: The election results were incredibly close, with only a two-vote margin separating the candidates. It has come to light that two mail in ballots were not counted and were properly postmarked in late April. A third vote is contested based on the address of the voter not living or ever living at the address filed with the board of elections.
2. Voter Concerns: I have received numerous reports from voters who have expressed concerns about potential discrepancies and irregularities at the polling stations. It is our duty to address these concerns seriously to maintain public confidence in our elections.
3. Significant Increase in Mail-In Ballots: There were an unusually large number of mail-in ballots casts, with significantly different outcomes as compared to election day ballots. This discrepancy warrants a closer examination to ensure all ballots were handled and counted properly.
4. Transparency and Fairness:  Executing my legal rights to contest the vote count in this extremely close election is critical to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency that are the cornerstones of our democracy. By ensuring every vote is accurately counted, we reaffirm our commitment to these values.
5. Legal and Procedural Integrity: Our election laws provide for the right to contest under circumstances such as these. Utilizing this provision is not only a right but a responsibility to guarantee that the electoral process is carried out with the utmost accuracy.

I believe that my decision to contest the May 14 election will provide clarity and ensure that the true will of the voters is accurately reflected. This process is not about questioning the integrity of election officials but about reaffirming the trust of the electorate in the system.

I extend my gratitude to the election officials, volunteers, and all those who have worked tirelessly throughout this election period. We ask for your patience and understanding as we undergo this process to ensure every vote is rightfully counted.

Thank you for your attention and continued support.

Sincerely,

Amie Vaules

www.amieforcouncil.com