 As we reported last night on Lakeland News, a recount shows Democrat John Purcell winning a Minnesota House seat in the Bemidji area. Purcell had eight more votes than Republican State Representative Matt Bliss going into Monday's recount and after the recount Purcell had an 11-vote lead over Bliss. Volunteers and election officials counted nearly 17,000 ballots by hand. Purcell, who served in the legislature for eight years before losing Nabilis in 2016, says he's excited to be headed back down to St. Paul. I am very thankful to all the voters that got out and made this election what it is. I hope it reinforces with everybody on both sides that every vote counts. The State Canvassing Board will finalize the recount results at a December 17th meeting. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.