491 Votes Cast for Write-In Candidate in Vienna Town Election
Jason Spellicy had not intended to run for Vienna Town Supervisor, but after the sudden passing of the incumbent, Mike Davis, in July, circumstances changed.
Unexpected Candidacy
Spellicy explained the aftermath:
“Mike passed away in July, and it left no access to a ballot the way the laws are set up. If you’re not in ahead of the primary and your petitions aren’t turned in at the right time, there’s no way for you to end up on the ballot, so write-in was the only option.”
Only a month before the election, he announced his candidacy as a write-in candidate.
Election Results and Support
He received 491 write-in votes, indicating support from voters across party lines. Spellicy commented,
“Clearly, getting 491 votes means there was a mix of voters from all parties and Independence that came out to support me. And I think that’s important for people to know. At the Town level, it’s not about politics, its neighbors are what it’s about.”
Spellicy is currently the unofficial winner, as write-in ballots are counted last, with final results expected by mid-November.
He expressed confidence about the outcome:
“With a 180 vote margin, I am not overly fearful that they’re going to be disallowing and disenfranchising more than 180 voters that took the time to go to the poll and write my name in.”
Next Steps for Vienna Town Board
Since the Town of Vienna will remain with one board member vacancy, the intention is to appoint someone to fill the position until the next election.
Author's summary: Despite entering late as a write-in candidate, Jason Spellicy garnered broad community support, likely securing the Vienna Town Supervisor seat amid unprecedented circumstances.