Virginia Officials Finishing Election Canvassing

17th District results will determine control of State Senate

Election officials in Virginia will finish canvassing Tuesday's votes on Thursday in the State's 17th district.

Republican Bryce Reeves’ lead is widening in a pivotal Senate race to decide the balance of power in state government.

Reeves pulled ahead of seven-term Democratic Sen. Edd Houck by 224 votes Wednesday, as localities canvassed nearly 45,000 votes cast on Tuesday and counted provisional ballots. Reeves had led by 86 votes Tuesday night.

A Reeves victory would produce a 20-20 split, but Republicans have made it clear they will use Republican Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling’s tie-breaking vote to claim control of committees. Republicans hold a hefty majority in the House.

The State Board of Election is set to certify the totals on Nov. 28. After that, the loser can ask for a recount. Houck has not said whether he would do so.

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Copyright AP - Associated Press
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