Turner to run write-in campaign in Perry Co. Commission race

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

The race for the District 1 seat on the Perry County Commission — apparently — is not over yet.

The Alabama Democratic Party Contest Committee voted to count a ballot from the primary election that local officials did not count. That vote broke the tie that resulted from a state ordered recount — giving long-time commissioner Albert Turner, Jr. the victory.

“The order that the Democratic Party issued is the order that has to be followed,” said Turner.

However, Turner’s name does not appear on the sample ballot on the Secretary of State website — for the general election in November.

“Currently, we are not on the ballot,” Turner said.

“It’s not whose name is on the ballot, it’s who can receive legal votes. And I’m the only person that can receive legal votes for the position of county commission in district 1, other than a person that would write-in.”

Turner says since his name is not on the ballot and the ballot has already been printed — he plans to move forward with a write-in campaign.

“I’m not going to spend anymore time arguing about whether or not my name’s on the ballot or not, it doesn’t matter. I know I’m the certified candidate, I know I’m the only one that can receive legal votes in this election. So, I’m satisfied with it,” said Turner.

“We’re going to forge a write-in campaign because we have to have at least one vote to make sure that we are the victor of the November general election.”

We reached out to District 1 candidate Donald Bennett — and Probate Judge Carlton Hogue for comment — but neither was available.