Murray wins in recount in 3rd Assembly District

Republican Dean Murray has officially won the special election in the 3rd Assembly District by 160 votes, after Suffolk elections officials completed a recount Wednesday.

Murray received 4,396 votes, or 50.93 percent, while Democrat Lauren Thoden had 4,236 votes, or 49.07 percent. On election night, Thoden was behind by 186 votes in unofficial results.

Elections officials sent a letter to Albany Wednesday certifying Murray as the winner, though military ballots can still come in until Monday. There are not enough of those votes out to change the winner.

Murray, 45, of East Patchogue, said he will go to Albany Thursday to do paperwork connected with his election, and that he will have a ceremonial swearing-in Monday in the Assembly parlor room. "I'm thrilled and relieved and excited," he said. "And I'm ready to get to work."