It was a close race to the very end, but Stephen Bedetti has secured the Republican nomination for New Windsor Town Supervisor, edging former Assemblyman Colin Schmitt by five votes.

“Every vote counts. After a hard fought GOP primary campaign, an extended paper ballot counting process and intense full hand recount effort we fell a few votes short,” said Schmitt on Monday. “I am grateful for all the support received during the primary and I am honored to continue as the Conservative Party nominee on November’s general election ballot.”

The two will go head-to-head once again in November, in an effort to succeed George J. Meyers as supervisor.

“I have been truly humbled by the support I received in the Republican Primary Election. I would like to thank everyone for their trust in me with their votes. After a full recount and opening of all absentee ballots, I am happy to announce I have been declared the winner of the Republican Primary for New Windsor Supervisor. The Board of Elections has officially certified the results today. Every single vote matters in our local elections,” said Bedetti. “I will be on the Republican line in the November general election for New Windsor Town Supervisor. I am already the endorsed Republican candidate. Once again, thank you New Windsor for your support. Let’s keep New Windsor moving forward in a positive direction. On to November!”

Following a hand count vote for New Windsor, Bedetti collected 765 votes and Schmitt collected 760 votes with two write-ins. In November, New Windsor residents will have the opportunity to cast their votes for town board candidates Charles Broe [R] and Sylvia Santiago [D] and town clerk candidates Kelly Allegra [D] and Patricia Clarino [R].

City of Newburgh
Democratic primary
In the City of Newburgh, Robert McLymore retained his lead for the at-large council seat bid. Councilman Omari Shakur has also declared victory in the primary.

Shakur received 399 votes and McLymore received 493 votes with 10 write-ins. Shakur had originally trailed behind fellow candidate Anusha Mehar immediately after the primary but the hand count number of votes for Mehar was reported at 396. Candidate Bryan Luna collected 231 votes and Gay Lee collected 128. Shakur and Mehar were contacted for statements but were not heard back at the time of the report. Both canvas statements have been signed by the Orange County Election Commissioners.

City of Newburgh residents will also cast their votes for Torrance Harvey [D] who seeks re-election as Mayor, while candidates John Giudice [R] and Hael Stewart-Fisher [Independent] seek the seat as well. Stewart-Fisher will be running on the Liberty of Newburgh line. At-Large candidates Christine Bello [R] and Donald Rehrey Jr [R] will also both seek the at-large seats this coming fall against the two Democratic candidates.