Primary election narrows race to Deschampe and Vannet

Election results are in for the special election for Cook County Commissioner District 1. The primary narrowed the race for the District 1 seat from four candidates to two. 

On the ballot were Ryan Bottger, Robert Deschampe, David Keller and James Vannet. 

Winning the most votes and moving on to the special general election on June 6 were Robert Deschampe of Grand Portage and Jim Vannet of Colvill. Deschampe earned 109 votes and Vannet, 116. Deschampe garnered more votes in the Grand Portage area with 61 votes to Vannet’s 17. However, more votes were cast for Vannet in Hovland and Colvill. 

Votes for the other candidates totaled 34 for David Keller and 88 for Ryan Bottger. 

The special election is necessary due to the retirement of Commissioner Frank Moe in December 2016. Moe was elected in 2014 to represent the east end of Cook County. He resigned in December 2016. 

Deschampe and Vannet will be on the ballot for the special election on June 6. 

The winner will take the oath of office at the county board meeting on June 13. The new District 1 commissioner will fulfill Moe’s term and will have to run for re-election in 2018.