Riverhead Town Supervisor Hubbard Concedes Election Loss

Riverhead Town Supervisor Tim Hubbard conceded four weeks after Election Day and a day after a recount that he lost his bid for a second term to Democratic challenger Jerry Halpin.

The Suffolk County Board of Elections confirmed that Halpin’s 21-vote lead in the unofficial early vote tally on election night grew to a 37-vote win following a legally mandated recount that was finalized this week.

“The election process has now concluded and I fully respect both the process and the outcome,” Hubbared said in a statement. “The people have spoken, and while the result was not what I had hoped for, I am committed to  ensuring a smooth transition for Supervisor-elect Halpin.”

Halpin and the Riverhead Democratic Committee had declared victory a week prior, but Hubbard opted to wait for the final recount before commenting on the results. 

“It has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve as an elected official for the Town of  Riverhead over the past 10 years,” Hubbard stated. “Throughout my time in office as Councilman then Supervisor,  I had the pleasure of working alongside residents, business owners, charitable organizations,  community partners, 300+ employees and countless government officials towards the common  goal of making Riverhead an incredible place to live, work and play. I truly love the Town of  Riverhead and have always believed in the immense potential this town holds. It has so much  to offer, and I remain optimistic about its future.”

He did not indicate if he plans to seek elected office again in the future.

“To the thousands of residents who supported me and voted for me—thank you,” he stated. “You gave me the opportunity to serve in a way that very few get to experience, and I will carry those experiences with me, forever.”

Halpin thanked the workers who ensured the accuracy of the election results.

“I look forward to getting to work and putting the taxpayers first,” he added.