After four recounts, recorder of deeds race still undecided in Delaware

After multiple recounts, the race for the Kent County Recorder of Deeds was ruled a tie.

Kent County Superior Judge Robert Young declared a tie on Monday night after election officials hand counted absentee ballots. This is the fourth recount since the Nov. 4 election.

Gov. Jack Markell could decide if the seat should go to Republican La Mar Gunn or Democrat incumbent Betty Lou McKenna.

However the Delaware Republican Party plans to challenge a single ballot that they say was unfairly given to McKenna.

“Judge Young ruled that the ballot in question should be given to the Democratic candidate,” explained John Fluharty, executive director of the Delaware GOP. “While we respect Judge Young, we disagree with his decision, and feel the there is no clear way to gage voter intent based on the markings on the ballot.”

Gunn won the November election by just two votes, defeating McKenna, who has held the seat since 2003. A recount is required by law if the number of votes separating the candidates falls at or below 0.5 percent.

The recorder of deeds responsible for maintaining copies of real estate and property documents.