Sandra Brakstad Declared Winner of St. Cloud City Council Ward 2 Primary After Hand Recount

Originally published at 11:05 a.m. August 17th, 2022

Updated 11:16 a.m. August 17th, 2022

(KNSI) — After a hand recount of votes cast in the August 9th primary for St. Cloud City Council Ward 2, officials have declared Sandra Brakstad the winner.

Brakstad and Seal Dwyer finished just three votes apart after all precincts had reported August 9th.

KNSI spoke with Brakstad immediately after the results were tallied and certified. She says, “it’s a sense of relief, I mean, it certainly had to be stressful for all involved. It gives me new confidence in our voting system, at least, at this place and time. And I’m really grateful for the results.”

Dwyer says she is so grateful for the votes she did get. The final total was 428 to 432. Dwyer adds, “I’m grateful for the support. I’m grateful for the people who see my vision for the city of St. Cloud. When I run again, in two years, I’m really excited to build that base outside the ward and bring new energy, new life, different perspectives to the city council.”

Minnesota law allows a recount if the difference is less than half a percent. Brakstad will take on Karen Larson for the seat in November.

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KNSI News Reporter Jake Judd contributed to this story.

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