Political Dictionary
A recount is a second tabulation of ballots conducted to verify or reconsider an election result.
Definition
A recount is a formal reexamination and retabulation of ballots after an election. It may be automatic when the margin falls below a statutory threshold, requested by a candidate or voter, or ordered by a court. Procedures vary by jurisdiction and may involve machine tabulation, hand counting, or both.
Why It Matters
Recounts help verify close results, identify tabulation errors, and strengthen confidence in the certified outcome. They rarely produce large changes unless the original margin is extremely narrow or a significant error occurred.
How It Works
Officials secure ballots and records, define the recount scope, observe chain-of-custody rules, retabulate votes, review disputed ballots under legal standards, and certify any revised totals.
History
Recounts have long been part of election administration. Modern recount laws developed alongside standardized ballots, voting machines, and detailed contest procedures.
Example
A state may automatically recount a race decided by less than one-half of one percent.
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