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Olszewski Wins Democratic Nomination For Baltimore Co. Exec. Following Recount

BALTIMORE CO., Md. (WJZ) -- Johnny Olszewski has won the Democratic primary for Baltimore County Executive following a recount.

A recount was ordered after former state delegate Olszewski edged out State Sen. Jim Brochin by nine votes.

The official recount numbers show that Olszewski beat Brochin by 17 votes, eight more than the original primary election count.

It was a race between Olszewski, Brochin and Councilwoman Vickie Almond.

There were 87,000 ballots in a recount, which was originally expected to take as long as give days, but ended in three.

Olszewski spoke Saturday evening after it was announce he won the recount.

At the gathering of supporters, Olszewski talked about the recount.

"Throughout this process, I have had complete faith in the work done by the board of elections," he said.

The recount was requested by Brochin after primary results showed him losing by just nine votes.

In an earlier interview with WJZ, Brochin said it was important to be sure.

"This isn't fun for anybody, but with nine votes, we have to be certain, and I appreciate the public's indulgence," he said.

Brochin posted on Facebook following the recount. In his statement, he congratulated Olszewski.

Olszewski acknowledged both of his competitors.

"I do appreciate the senator's [Brochin] very kind remarks on social media earlier today. I know it's been a hard-fought campaign for all of us," he said. "I've spoken several times to the councilwoman [Almond] in the past, and she extended her well wishes on the results of the day and look forward to continuing a conversation with both of them."

The results still have to be certified by the State Board of Elections, which could happen by Tuesday or Wednesday.

Olszewski faces Republican Al Redmer in the November 6 general election.

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