Haverhill to Recount 3rd District Democratic Ballots Saturday

(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.)

The recount is officially on, with several local cities and towns poring over democratic ballots cast on September 4 in an effort to finalize the vote count between primary candidates Lori Trahan and Dan Koh.

Though Koh came out on top in Haverhill’s official tally, with 2,071 votes to Trahan’s 678, all ballots will be recounted by election officials on Saturday at City Hall.

According to Secretary William F. Galvin’s office, the official recount began in Methuen on Thursday, with nearly 35 communities expected to re-tabulate their totals. All recounts must be completed by Monday, Sept. 17, Galvin’s office said.

Koh cast his ballot in Andover on Sept. 4. (Courtesy photograph)

Trahan is expected to visit Haverhill on Sunday afternoon for a Haverhill Democratic City Committee “Unity Rally” and 1 p.m. voter reception at downtown’s Barking Dog Ale House.

The Westford-based candidate initially claimed victory at a September 5 press conference, when her lead over Koh stood at just 52 votes. At the time, Trahan said she was running full steam ahead with her eye on the November state election.

“We cannot wait one day more to start this campaign,” said Trahan. “I am eager to highlight my vision for how we need to change Washington and get government back on the side of working people.”

The candidate who wins the 3rd congressional primary will take on Republican Rick Green and Independent Mike Mullen in November’s bid to succeed retiring Congresswoman Niki Tsongas.