CARMEL – It was a nail-biter, but in the end, Republican County Executive Kevin Byrne won reelection to his second term as Putnam’s chief elected official.
Byrne was on the losing side as votes were initially tabulated late Tuesday night; however, when tallies from Putnam Valley and southern Mahopac were received, Byrne’s tally ballooned to a 595-vote victory over his two opponents, Democrat Brett Yarris and Conservative Tatiana Brahimi.
Totals released by the Board of Elections: Byrne—20,145; Yarris—19,550 and Brahimi—2,271.
Shortly before midnight when Byrne arrived at a victory celebration, he expressed thanks to residents of the county for their support. “This race has been the most difficult I have experienced. We have more work to do. I want to acknowledge both of my opponents. Despite our disagreements, some stronger than others, it takes a lot of courage to seek office. It is my job now to earn all the peoples’ trust and continue to do the work for every resident of Putnam County.”
Byrne also mentioned Congressman Mike Lawler who lost his reelection bid to Cait Conley. Byrne called Lawler a “dear friend and friend of the people of Putnam County who served us with distinction during his tenure.”
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