Idaho Republican Party Calls for Recounts

LEWISTON, Idaho -- The Idaho Republican Party is encouraging two of its candidates to ask for recounts where they narrowly lost to their Democratic challengers in the Nov. 4 election.

Republican state Rep. Thyra Stevenson of Lewiston lost to Democrat Dan Rudolph by 26 votes. Meanwhile, fellow Republican Mike Kingsley lost to House Minority Leader John Rusche by 48 votes.

Idaho Republican Party's Executive Director David Johnston told the Lewiston Tribune in a story that ran Saturday the narrow margins in both races warrant a recount.

Under Idaho law, the races don't qualify for an automatic recount but the candidates can ask for one if they pay for it.