GA Senate -- A Recount? Maybe Even A Run-Off?

The race between Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R) and Democrat Jim Martin remains unresolved despite a three-point lead for Chambliss, thanks to a state requirement that the winner break 50 percent.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports this morning that state Republican Chairwoman Sue Everhart says she's expecting a recount.

Chambliss, seeking a second term, has 49 percent of the vote, according to NPR's election map. Martin has 46 percent, and Libertarian Allen Buckley has a bit more than 3 percent.

If the recount doesn't put Chambliss over the top, Georgia will hold a run-off in four weeks. In that case, Libertarians will have to contemplate going with the Republican they spurned on election day.

-- Peter Overby

UPDATE: The latest numbers show Chambliss with 49.8% of the vote, still just shy of the 50% required by state law for a victory. The candidates say they are preparing for a December 2nd runoff.

12:48 PM ET | 11- 5-2008 | permalink

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