BATESVILLE, Ark. (AP) — Independence County election officials will recount ballots Thursday in a state legislative race that will determine whether Republicans will hold a majority of seats in the 100-member Arkansas House of Representatives.
Republican John K. Hutchison defeated Democrat L.J. Bryant by 44 votes last week. Bryant sought a recount but made no significant dent during new tallies in Craighead, Jackson and Poinsett counties. After Thursday’s recount in Batesville, only four military ballots remain. They must be in by the end of business Friday.
The GOP holds a 51-48-1 edge over Democrats and the Green Party in the House. If Bryant should win, neither party would have a majority.
Republicans haven’t controlled either chamber at the state Capitol since Reconstruction — but will take control of the Senate in January.
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