Republican incumbent Brian Walsh holds a narrow nine-vote lead over Democratic challenger and sitting Town Board member Kevin Walsh in the Pine Plains Town Supervisor race, according to unofficial results from the Dutchess County Board of Elections. A recount is expected.
As of Nov. 3, election officials reported 18 outstanding mail-in ballots — nine from voters with no party affiliation, seven from Democrats and two from Republicans. Mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day may be received by the Board of Elections until Nov. 12.
If Brian Walsh does secure the win, the outcome of the election will still shift the balance of power in Pine Plains: Democrats will hold a 4–1 majority on the Town Board. Alongside Roush, Birdsall, and Kevin Walsh, sitting member Jeanine Sisco rounds out the Democratic caucus, with Brian Walsh now the lone Republican on the board.
Brian Walsh received 423 votes (50.54%) to Kevin Walsh’s 414 (49.46%) — totals that include Election Day, early voting, and absentee ballots counted as of Thursday evening. Kevin Walsh, who was elected to the Town Board in 2024, will continue to serve the remainder of his four-year term.
On Oct. 16, the New York State Court of Appeals ruled that local elections will henceforth occur on even years across the state. Consequently, Brian Walsh’s new term is only one year instead of two, and Roush and Birdsall will serve just three before they face another election.
The new board members will take office in January, setting the stage for a potentially dynamic year of policymaking on issues such as infrastructure investment, land use, and fiscal planning.
Editor’s Note: As the race for Town Supervisor is close, a recount is expected. The Herald will update this article as new information becomes available.