October 21, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Following a closely contested municipal election, Communities First mayoral candidate Sonya Sharp has officially requested a recount after losing to Jeromy Farkas by a narrow margin of just 585 votes.
In a statement released Tuesday, Sharp confirmed that her campaign would be submitting the recount request to Calgary’s Chief Returning Officer for review.
“To every Calgarian who voted in the advanced polls and on election day, regardless of who you voted for, you have my heartfelt thanks,” Sharp said, acknowledging the high voter turnout and civic engagement.
According to Elections Calgary, a recount may be requested by the second-place candidate if the margin of victory is within 0.5 per cent of the total ballots cast at a voting station. Sharp highlighted that the current difference—585 votes—represents just 0.16 per cent of the total vote.
Unofficial results show Farkas with 91,065 votes, narrowly edging out Sharp, who received 90,480. Incumbent mayor Jyoti Gondek came in third with 71,397 votes and conceded late Monday evening.
Sharp praised voters for their dedication, noting that many braved long lines and chilly autumn weather to make their voices heard. “Your participation is the very foundation of our government,” she said.
She emphasized that the recount request is not a reflection on election officials, who managed a challenging day under new procedures and hand-counted ballots well into the early morning. “Mistakes can occur during stressful situations,” Sharp said, calling the recount “a reasonable step” given the slim margin.
“I am happy to accept the outcome of this review, win or lose, because the final word of our citizens is what matters most in local government,” she added.
Sharp also stated she would not make further public comments or media appearances until the recount process is complete.
The Chief Returning Officer has not yet issued a public response to the request.
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