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The mayoral race in Hudson remains undecided as the gap between challenger Joseph Ferris and incumbent Mayor Kamal Johnson narrowed to 45 votes on Monday (November 10). The Columbia County Board of Elections added 34 absentee ballots to the tally, bringing Ferris to 958 votes and Johnson to 913. According to the board, 40 mail ballots and eight overseas ballots are still outstanding. The final deadline for local ballots is Wednesday (November 12), while overseas ballots must arrive by November 17.
Both candidates are holding off on declaring victory until all votes are counted and the election is certified. Ferris, who declared himself the winner last week, did not respond to requests for comment on Monday. Meanwhile, Johnson reiterated his plan to wait for the final count before making any announcements.
The race has been a close contest, with Ferris receiving 49% of the votes and Johnson 46%, according to unofficial results. The election has highlighted differing visions for the city. Johnson, a lifelong Hudson resident, focused on capital projects and affordable housing developments. Ferris, who moved to Hudson in 2022, emphasized a more efficient city hall and improved pedestrian safety.
According to the Times Union, the campaign was marked by debates over local issues, including uncollected property taxes and Johnson's relationship with a local developer. The outcome remains uncertain as the final votes are awaited.