Statement by Charlie Creel to the press

November 11, 2008

I would like to make a few remarks.

This election was so close that a state recount was mandated by law. As of this morning, we still have a two-vote discrepancy in the number of ballots cast from those counted on Sunday in the Commission District Five race. More than likely, those two ballots will not change the outcome of the sheriff’s race.

I want to thank the Canvassing Board, their staff, and the Supervisor of Elections, who have worked tirelessly over the past several days. I also want to thank attorney Wayne Malaney who stepped in and took charge of the recount. Having Wayne’s expertise made a huge difference in the way the count was conducted and in the confidence that we felt in the system.

Although the outcome was not as we had hoped, I urge my supporters to come together to help unify our community, and to put this race behind us.

We all have different backgrounds, faiths, jobs, and issues, but we all have one thing in common, and we all care deeply for Wakulla County.

We need to work together to keep this community safe for our children and for our families. That is our number one priority.

I would like to thank my wife Cheryl, our daughter Hilary, my family, and all of our supporters for their hard work and efforts throughout this long campaign.

We now know that almost half of our county is looking for a change in the way business has been conducted in the sheriff’s department. I am hopeful that Sheriff Harvey will acknowledge this sentiment and will make the necessary changes to reclaim the trust of all Wakulla County citizens

The race is now over, and I wish David Harvey the very best in the coming months and in the years ahead.