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In a stunning finish, Adam Alharbi has emerged victorious in Hamtramck’s highly contested mayoral race, defeating city councilman Muhith Mahmood by a mere six votes. The final tally revealed Alharbi received 2,066 votes, compared to 2,060 for Mahmood.
The election results were delayed due to complications surrounding 150 absentee ballots that required signature corrections. Furthermore, the recent discovery of 37 uncounted ballots in the city clerk’s office cast a shadow over the electoral process, prompting the city clerk to be placed on administrative leave while the situation is investigated.
The tight race saw tensions rise as Alharbi had previously filed a lawsuit challenging Mahmood’s eligibility to run for mayor. This legal battle underscored the stakes involved in Hamtramck’s political landscape, further igniting debates regarding the integrity of the election.
In a statement following the results, Alharbi expressed his gratitude to the residents for their support and emphasized his commitment to bringing positive change to the community. “This victory belongs to the people of Hamtramck,” Alharbi said. “I am humbled by the trust you’ve placed in me, and I look forward to serving all residents passionately and diligently.”
Meanwhile, Mahmood has not yet conceded, leaving the door open for potential legal challenges as he reviews the election outcomes and the implications of the ballot discrepancies. The close results and subsequent issues highlight a pressing need for electoral reform in Hamtramck.
As the city looks to move forward, Alharbi’s victory marks a significant moment in its history, with questions regarding the electoral process lingering in the minds of many voters.
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