Gubernatorial candidate Ryan Kelley is calling for a recount of Tuesday's Republican Primary election results despite finishing in fourth place.
In a Facebook post, Ryan Kelley accuses the Michigan Secretary of State office of election fraud, calling Tuesday's primary results a "preferred and predetermined outcome." Kelley goes on to say, "NOT CONCEDING! Let's see the GOP and the predetermined winner call for a publicly supervised hand recount to uphold election integrity."
Kelley, who lost by over 25 points to Trump-endorsed Tudor Dixon, has stated in the past he believes election fraud played a part in the 2020 Presidential election. He's also been indicted on federal misdemeanor charges for his involvement in the January 6th riot.
Tracy Wimmer is the Director of Michigan's Department of State. She says Michigan has begun the two-week process of certifying election results, but says she is confident that Tuesday's results were fair and accurate.
"Absolutely confident," Wimmer said. "That is indicative, that despite the misinformation, despite the rhetoric, people are excited to participate in our democracy, and they have faith that their voice will be heard, and their vote will be counted."
As far as a recount, she says, Ryan Kelley can request one in writing. However, by law, it will come at his expense. A statewide recount will cost $250 per precinct, or roughly $1.8 million.
WGVU reached out to the Kelley campaign. At the time of this report, there has not been a response.
Kelley stands alone in his election fraud claims. Gubernatorial candidate Garrett Soldano has congratulated winner Tudor Dixon. Candidates Kevin Rinke and Ralph Rebandt have both conceded the race.