WICU12

It is now official. Democrat Barry Grossman is the winner in the race for Erie County Executive. CLICK FOR VIDEO  Republican Mike Kerner conceded today, after the final absentee ballots were counted. In the end the Grossman's margin of victory was 344 votes, up from 341 on election night. Workers had to count more than 1200 absentee ballots plus votes from 7 untabulated machines. Kerner choked back tears and embraced Grossman at the courthouse about 90 minutes after all the votes were counted. Kerner and Republican Party leaders said they decided Grossman's margin of victory was too large to push for a recount. Kerner said, "I feel at this point rather than holding out with a very slim chance we would somehow prevail, I think the right thing to do at this point is to concede the election to Mr. Grossman." Grossman said, "I just have to tip my hat to him. He worked real, real hard and wanted it very badly. He would have been a good leader." Grossman said he is now ready to begin planning to takeover county government's top job. His transition team, led by Gannon University's Dr. David Kozak will hold it's first meeting tomorrow.

Paul Wagner