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In the tight race for mayor of Hudson, a crucial deadline arrives today (November 12) for the final mail-in ballots to be counted. As of now, Democrat Joseph Ferris leads incumbent Mayor Kamal Johnson by a narrow margin of 45 votes. The Columbia County Board of Elections reports that 40 local mail ballots and eight overseas ballots remain outstanding. The overseas ballots must be received by November 17.
On Monday (November 10), the board added 34 absentee ballots to the tally, bringing Ferris's total to 958 votes and Johnson's to 913. Both candidates are waiting for the final count before making any declarations. Johnson has stated he will not concede until all votes are counted and the election results are certified, while Ferris previously declared victory but has not commented further.
The election has been closely contested, with Ferris receiving 49% of the votes and Johnson 46%, according to unofficial results. The campaign highlighted differing visions for Hudson, with Johnson focusing on capital projects and affordable housing, and Ferris advocating for a more efficient city hall and improved pedestrian safety.
The outcome of the election remains uncertain as the final ballots are awaited. The race has drawn attention due to the close vote count and the candidates' contrasting platforms.