Alaska Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell won’t be seeking a recount in his primary challenge against Don Young:
“If I thought there was anything wrong, inappropriate or unprofessional about the way this election tally was conducted, I would not only call for a recount, I would demand one. But that is not the case here,” Parnell stated. “While a recount could change the outcome of this exceedingly close election – normal human error being what it is – such a result is unlikely. As such, I do not believe it justifies an expenditure of taxpayer funds.”
Now, other parties can petition the state to push for a recount, so that may still happen. But it won’t be done with Parnell’s blessing.
Parnell and the Club For Growth really let this one slip through their fingers. As Stuart Rothenberg might say (but won’t), they should be ashamed of themselves. Young now is facing the fight of his life against former Democratic state Rep. Ethan Berkowitz.
I’ve heard that we might see a new poll of this race relatively soon, so stay tuned.
For the first time since the Reagan sweep of 1980, Alaska will not have an all Republican delegation.
I think Parnell is making a smart political decision for himself by taking the high road. Young and Stephens are set for defeat, and even if they win, they are likely to retire in the near future. And, Palin is looking to move up. If Palin wins, he’s Governor. If Stephens wins and is later forced out, he’s Senator. Worst case, Young loses to Berkowitz and he challenges him in 2 years or he runs for Senator in 2014.
He lost what should have been a VERY easy race.
The DCCC shouldn’t spend a penny. Berkowitz can handle this one.
This is lean D for sure now.