Fought can win 8th District primary with 1 vote

He didn’t know at the time that his candidacy would cost taxpayers $500,000 for a one-man special election.

State law does not allow a winner to be declared without a vote. Likewise, when the previous candidate drops out long before the election, state law requires that a special primary must be held.

“I thought the important thing is people have a choice on the ballot. Unfortunately the state law is insufficient and results in extra cost and it’s not my fault,” Fought said.

Fought, 62, is a Mercer County native who recently moved to Springfield. He registered to vote in the 8th district, giving him the chance to cast a ballot for himself.