Jackson County State’s Attorney race recount underway

JACKSON COUNTY, Ill. (KFVS) - More than six weeks after voters cast their ballots, the results in the Jackson County State’s Attorney could still change.

Democrat Marsha Cascio-Hale was sworn into office in early December, but a recount is underway to determine whether she or Republican incumbent Joe Cervantez will do the job.

Cascio-Hale beat Joe Cervantez by just 39 votes in the November 5th election. Cervantez then requested a recount of 14 precincts.

Under Illinois law, that is allowed for close races with margins below 5%.

Jackson County Clerk Frank Byrd says that the discovery recount is costing taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars and is a very extensive process, but says it is going very well.

“We’re doing everything we are supposed to do. We’re complying with everything that they want, that is required by the statute,” said Byrd.

“Right now everything is smooth. The comradery is well. We aren’t having any issues,” said Byrd.

Election judges from both parties are counting votes, and comparing signatures to make sure everything matches up, with added supervision.

“With this situation, they’re asking for representatives from each candidate to be at the table with the election judges to examine those ballots. That’s what they’re doing now,” said Byrd.

The discovery recount was paused on Friday afternoon for the Christmas holiday and will resume at a later date.