Sonya Williams Barnes requests ballot box inspections

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- Democratic Mayoral Candidate Sonya Williams Barnes has requested the inspection of ballot boxes in the aftermath of her loss to Republican Hugh Keating in the mayoral race two weeks ago.

Williams Barnes sent a letter to the Gulfport City Clerk’s Office, congratulating Republican Hugh Keating on his win, but also requesting that she be able to canvass the ballots in the election.

Candidates are able to make such requests up to 12 days following result certification.

Once a date has been set, the city clerk’s office will notify Mayoral Elect Hugh Keating.

Keating’s campaign released a statement to WXXV on this matter, saying: “All ballots were counted properly and the election results have been officially certified. Any candidate has a right to request an opportunity to canvass the ballots. The outcome will not change.”

Keating will have the option to be present when those inspections take place.