UPDATE: The race for Cleveland’s Ward 12 city council seat has reached a nail-biting climax, with challenger Tanmay Shah currently leading incumbent Councilman Danny Kelly by just seven votes. As of now, voters and candidates alike are anxiously awaiting the final results, which will be certified by the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections on November 25, 2023.
On election night, Shah’s unexpected lead has sent shockwaves through the community, with both candidates struggling to process the implications of such a tight race. “To be frank, I think my brain broke a little bit,” Shah admitted, highlighting the pressure and uncertainty surrounding the recount process. With approximately 50 ballots still outstanding, including provisional and uncounted vote-by-mail ballots, the outcome remains precarious.
The significance of this tightly contested race cannot be overstated. At just 29 years old, Shah’s journey is a compelling story of resilience and ambition. An immigrant from India, he has worked as a housing attorney, truck driver, and union organizer. Shah’s diverse background fuels his vision for a better Cleveland. “Cleveland isn’t a poor city; it’s an exploited city,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to addressing systemic issues through a Democratic Socialist lens.
Meanwhile, Kelly, who has held the Ward 12 seat since January 2023, is not backing down. “We have to wait for the votes to be counted,” he said, urging patience from both campaigns and the electorate. “It’s not fair to either of our campaigns to make a misstep.”
As the candidates await certification, they have also been invited to participate in council leadership votes. Shah plans to abstain, stating, “I do not feel comfortable voting until my election has actually been certified.” His decision underscores the weight of this moment, not only for himself but for the entire community.
Both candidates have expressed respect for one another’s campaigns, acknowledging the hard work and effort that has gone into mobilizing voters. “You don’t get a race this close unless you really work hard to get the people out,” Kelly praised, noting the dedication of volunteers on both sides.
With just days to go until the official results are revealed, the tension is palpable in Cleveland’s Ward 12. Voters are left wondering how the remaining ballots will sway the outcome. As the clock ticks down to November 25, all eyes are on the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story, as Cleveland prepares for a possible recount that could redefine the political landscape in Ward 12.
