Friday, July 17, 2009

A Man's Reach -- A Transforming Life, 45: Recount

"After the Most Careful Consideration," March 23, 1963

139 days after the 1962 gubernatorial election, and through the canvassing and recounting of votes, it was determined that Governor Andersen lost the election by 91 votes to Karl Rolvaag. An appeal to the state Supreme Court was still possible. Instead, at a press conference on March 23, Andersen announced his intention to waive his right of appeal. His remarks were transcribed and printed in this pamphlet.

"After the most careful consideration I have decided not to appeal the ruling of the district judge panel. There is no justification for appeal simply because the Supreme Court has already made its position clear on certain categories of irregular ballots and there is no way to judge the remainder so as to reverse the result of the lower court….

To the very many people who have urged me in the most strenuous terms to appeal to the Supreme Court, I may say with equal emphasis, that were there the slightest basis for expecting a reversal of judgment, I would most certainly appeal.

On the other hand, when a competent and fair tribunal, which the district judge panel most certainly has been, renders a judgment that skilled representatives of mine feel cannot be successfully challenged in a higher court, then no one could expect me to appeal in order to gain time or keep possession of this office until the last possible moment...."

Courtesy Minnesota Historical Society

"A Man's Reach -- A Transforming Life" is on display through August 15 in the Exhibit Gallery, Elmer L. Andersen Library, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus.

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