Democratic recount requested

Kat Sheridan

Sep 03, 2026

Steven Medeiros and Edward Pacheco have requested a recount of the Democratic race for the State Representative race from Tuesday, Sept. 1.

Edward Pacheco won by 14 votes overall, and 22 votes in Dartmouth. Due to the close race, Medeiros stated he was not conceding, and both formally requested a recount at the Secretary of State's office on Friday, Sept. 4.

Each candidate collected signatures from Democrats who had concerns that a recount was necessary, which was turned into the Town to be certified. After this, they go to the Secretary of State to request the recount.

The Secretary of State orders the recount, then the Dartmouth Board of Registrars sets the date, time, and place. Candidates are required to receive two days notice.

“If every legal ballot is hand-counted and my opponent is ahead, he will have my respect as our nominee. And if we pull ahead, I will proudly lead our party into November. That is how democracy works,” said Medeiros.

Pacheco has requested a district-wide recount, as he was unsure if Medeiros requested a district wide or a precinct recount. Pacheco feels that if a recount must happen, it must be the entire district. Medeiros stated he did also request a district wide recount.

"I think it's the right thing to do for the voters," said Medeiros.

However, Pacheco stated he has been attempting to schedule a meeting with Medeiros to try and cancel the recount. If both candidates agree to disregard the recount, and sign a paper agreeing, the recount will be cancelled.

"I would ask him to reconsider the statements he made and reconsider what's best for the district," said Pacheco.

He added, "I don’t want to see the seat go to the republicans because I don’t feel their values are the values of the district."

Medeiros has refused this, as he feels the recount is necessary and has been confused by Pacheco's actions.

"Mr. Pacheco was texting me ... saying we don't need a recount," said Medeiros. "Saying one thing and doing something else, and I've been consistent the entire week."