Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Josh Langfelder says he has enough evidence to challenge the Nov. 5 election results in the Sangamon County Recorder race, but he has decided not to petition for a full recount.

Langfelder, the incumbent, trailed Springfield City Clerk Frank Lesko by just 31 votes after all ballots were counted in November. With such a slim margin, Langfelder initiated a discovery recount, examining 41 voting precincts to see if further action was warranted.

His team, along with representatives for Lesko, meticulously reviewed ballots and other election materials. The review took over a week to complete. Langfelder released a statement Thursday evening explaining his decision.

“In review of the notes and findings my volunteers took during the discovery process, we came to the conclusion there is enough information to substantiate a change in the election totals for the Office of Sangamon County Recorder. After further discussion with my attorneys and understanding that the process could take over a year in the courts with an estimated cost in excess of $50,000, I have decided not to proceed with the petition.” 

Langfelder also shared details of issues found during the discovery recount, including overvotes, missing initials, duplicate ballots, and remade ballots.

Langfelder thanked his volunteers and the staff at the Sangamon County Clerk’s Office for their efforts. He also expressed gratitude for the support he received from the community during the discovery process.

Lesko, who did not step down from his role as city clerk while the discovery recount was underway, has been holding both positions since being sworn in as Sangamon County Recorder on Dec. 2.

When interviewed in November, prior to the discovery recount, Langfelder said he would not rule out running for another office.