ST. JOHN’S — A Liberal who narrowly lost his seat in Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial election says he has asked for a judicial recount in his district.

Derek Bennett lost to Progressive Conservative Mark Butt by just 18 votes in the Lewisporte–Twillingate district in last week’s election.

In a statement, Bennett said he feels the close result deserves a thorough review and he filed an application for a recount Friday with the province’s Supreme Court.

He previously told The Canadian Press he was concerned about an hours-long power outage that occurred in his district on the day of the vote.

The province’s election laws say districts with a margin of victory of 10 votes or less are subject to automatic recounts, but candidates or electors can request a review.

The Progressive Conservatives won 21 of 40 seats in the Oct. 14 election, netting the party a slim majority over the incumbent Liberals, who won 15 seats.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 24, 2025.

The Canadian Press