UPDATE: The highly contested race for Cleveland’s Ward 12 city council seat remains unresolved, with the final results not expected until November 25, 2023. Incumbent Councilman Danny Kelly trails challenger Tanmay Shah by a razor-thin margin of just seven votes as the countdown to certification begins.
Shah expressed his disbelief over the unprecedented tightness of the race, stating, “To be frank, I think my brain broke a little bit.” The uncertainty hinges on approximately 50 outstanding ballots, including provisional and mail-in votes, which could still lead to an automatic recount.
The Cuyahoga County Board of Elections has the critical task of certifying these results, with both candidates anxiously awaiting updates that could shift the balance of power in Cleveland politics. Shah, a 29-year-old housing attorney who immigrated from India at the age of nine, emphasized the significance of community representation, stating, “Cleveland isn’t a poor city; it’s an exploited city.”
Despite the tense atmosphere, both candidates have shown respect for each other’s campaigns, with Kelly insisting, “We have to wait for the votes to be counted.” He acknowledged the hard work put in by both teams, stating, “You don’t get a race this close unless you really work hard to get the people out.”
While both candidates have been invited to vote for council leadership positions, Shah plans to abstain until his own election is certified, reflecting the gravity of this moment. “I personally do not feel comfortable voting until my election has actually been certified,” he noted.
As Clevelanders await the outcome, the implications of this election extend beyond the candidates. It represents a critical moment for community engagement and the future direction of local governance. The stakes are high, and the community is poised for what could be a historic recount process.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The anticipation is palpable, with both candidates and voters alike eager to learn the final verdict of this nail-biting election.
