BREAKING: A rare tie in the Bucksport school board election has thrown the race into uncertainty, potentially setting the stage for a runoff election in December. Emily Fitzgerald and incumbent Keith Kneeland Jr. each secured 773 votes, according to a recount ordered after initial results showed Fitzgerald winning by just three votes.
The shocking development unfolded this week when the recount revealed both candidates received identical votes, marking an unprecedented outcome for Bucksport. Town Manager Jacob Gran confirmed that 187 ballots were left blank, and one ballot was unaccounted for during the initial tally of 1,734 ballots. This final ballot was found mixed with state election ballots, resulting in a tie for the school board seat.
As the clock ticks, both candidates have seven days to make their intentions clear regarding the race. Neither has indicated plans to withdraw, heightening the possibility of a runoff. Gran stated that if both candidates choose to continue, state law mandates that the Town Council must call a runoff election, likely to take place in mid- to late December.
Kneeland expressed his determination, stating he is “1000% staying in the race,” calling the experience a “giant roller coaster of emotions.” Initially declared the winner on election night, he later learned that absentee ballots had not been counted, shifting the lead to Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald has remained tight-lipped about her plans, contributing to the suspense surrounding the race. The upcoming weeks will be critical, as at least 30 days of absentee voting is required before the polls can open for the runoff.
This unprecedented tie not only affects the candidates but also carries significant implications for the Bucksport community, which is eager for a resolution. The school board seat covers the district that includes Bucksport, Orland, Prospect, and Verona Island.
As the situation develops, voters and community members are urged to stay informed about the potential runoff election, which could reshape the leadership of RSU 25 for the next three years.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
