Latah County, Idaho, completed a comprehensive recount of every ballot cast in the November 3, 2026 election after a procedural error left more than 2,000 votes unrecorded. The recount added 2,343 in‑person early‑voting ballots that had not appeared on the official VoteIdaho website.
Why the recount was needed
Secretary of State Phil McGrane described the omission as a “procedural” mistake and ordered his team to act immediately. “Elections have built-in safeguards to ensure votes are accurately counted and reported,” McGrane said in a press release. “When this discrepancy was discovered, our team jumped into action and headed immediately to Latah County. For the recount, we went back to the source, which is the paper ballots. That’s how we verify the results and give voters confidence that their voices are accurately reflected.”
Results of the recount
The updated totals are now posted on VoteIdaho.gov and will be formally certified by the Latah County Board of Commissioners on November 12 at 3 p.m. The most closely watched item on the ballot was the Moscow School District No. 281 Plant Facilities Reserve Fund Levy. After the recount, the levy passed with 60.34% of the vote, just above the 60% threshold required for approval.
Local officials respond
Latah County Clerk Julie Fry emphasized the importance of accurate reporting. “We take our responsibility to accurately report election results seriously, and this error should not have happened,” Fry said. “I’m grateful to our election staff and the Secretary of State’s Office for their work to verify the results and ensure every ballot is properly accounted for.”
What this means for voters
County officials say the recount demonstrates the resilience of Idaho’s election system. By returning to the original paper ballots, they were able to correct the record without altering the overall outcome of any races or measures. Voters can expect the certified results to reflect the true will of the electorate.
Looking ahead
The Latah County Board of Commissioners will review the certified numbers and move forward with any next steps required by state law, including the implementation of the school levy funds. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the county’s official website and upcoming public meetings.
For a complete list of the updated vote totals, visit VoteIdaho.gov.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
