Every vote really does matter.
The first ever tie in a California congressional race was certified by state election officials Thursday, meaning three Democratic candidates will head to the general election in November.
Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian and Assembly member Evan Low both finished with 30,249 votes apiece in the March 5 contest, good for second place in California’s 16th Congressional District “jungle primary,” which typically allows the top two finishers, regardless of party affiliation, to advance to the general election.
Former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo – the first-place finisher – also advanced, receiving 38,489 votes.
“It’s a special ‘Tie’ day!” Low posted on X, including a photo of himself beaming and donning a purple tie.
Low and Simitian will not ask for a recount, which would cost their campaigns as much as $32,000 a day for what is expected to be a 10-day process, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
With both candidates already in position to advance to the general election, a recount would have also been a risky endeavor if votes were to be found favoring the rival candidate.
The state does not have automatic recounts, however, any registered California voter can request one if they pay for it.
The November election will determine Rep. Anna Eshoo’s (D-Calif.) successor in Congress.
Eshoo, 81, announced last November that her current term in the House of Representatives would be her last, ending a 30-year congressional career.
She previously endorsed Simitian’s campaign.
Liccardo, Low and Simitian were among 11 candidates vying to replace Eshoo.
“This historically close race shows that every vote really counts,” Low wrote in a separate X post.. “I could not have made it this far without every one of you, and I hope to earn your support once again in November.”
