Incumbent Sean Chu narrowly avoids defeat in Ward 4, recount expected

Incumbent Sean Chu has barely managed to hang on to his seat in Calgary’s Ward 4 for now, but a recount is expected in the incredibly tight race.

BREAKING: Sean Chu has won Ward 4 by a narrow margin of 52 votes. Here are the unofficial results from the Calgary General Election page: pic.twitter.com/ginzjNQaqC

— Jeff Slack (@Jeffslack660) October 19, 2021

Chu captured 43 per cent of the vote but only had a 52-vote lead on second-place Daniel James (DJ) Kelly, who claimed 42 per cent of votes.

Kelly’s camp says it’s in the process of making an application for a recount.

“We are very fortunate to live in a democratic society where every vote counts, and we intend to ensure that the voice of every Calgarian in Ward 4 is heard,” reads a statement from the candidate.

“As we went throughout every neighbourhood in Ward 4, knocking on more than 11,000 doors and connecting with neighbours, it never escaped me that I was running for my community. They’re not going anywhere, so I’m not going anywhere, no matter what the final result is.”

The results are currently unofficial, as they have not yet been certified by the returning officer.

RELATED:

• Sean Chu allegations involving a minor treated seriously, CPS says of 1997 investigation

• A look at who was elected in each ward

Chu was the recent subject of a CBC story that alleged the councillor had been in a relationship with a 16-year-old girl during his time serving as a police officer in the city.

Chu responded, confirming that he had been disciplined for the relationship, but said he didn’t know the girl was underage as they met at an establishment where minors were not allowed.