PORTLAND, Maine - A recount is likely as the only congressional primary on the Maine ballot remains too close to call.
The Associated Press has declined to declare a victor in the race between Republicans Ande Smith of North Yarmouth and Mark Holbrook of Brunswick. They're competing for the opportunity to face Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree on the November ballot.
The unofficial tally Wednesday morning put Holbrook ahead by 58 votes with results pending from only one community, Isle au Haut. But the AP deemed that to be too close to account for possible clerical errors, and a recount request is expected. Holbrook said the contest provided an evening of white-knuckle moments.
"An hour ago, I was up by 39 votes and two more precincts to report," Holbrook says. "This is a real horse race, and it's turning into a nail-biter."
Maine allows for recounts that are requested within five business days. The race is so close that there is no cash deposit necessary to initiate the recount process.
A.J. Higgins contributed to this story.