Christina Drewry declared victory in a statement on March 28 after Smith County Precinct 1 Commissioner Pam Frederick conceded following a recount of votes in the March 5 primary election. (Katecey Harrell/ Tyler Morning Telegraph ) 

Christina Drewry declared victory in a statement Thursday after Smith County Precinct 1 Commissioner Pam Frederick conceded earlier this week following a recount of votes in the March 5 primary election.

“In my capacity as a county commissioner, you have the power. I work for you. I will always put you first. You hired me at the ballot box, and you are my boss now,” Drewry said. “Whether you voted or didn’t vote at all, I need – and want – you to be involved in your county government.”

Drewry received 95 more votes than the incumbent, Frederick. Because the difference was less than 10%, Frederick petitioned for a recount.

On Tuesday, 15 counters spent up to 10 hours recounting the paper ballots for the race, according to Smith County Republican Party Chairman David Stein.

“That was not an easy day,” Drewery said in the statement. “Thank you for your dedication to this process.”

Although Drewry was not the petitioner, she expressed gratitude to everyone who took the time to conduct the recount. Drewry’s victory by a narrow margin demonstrated the importance of voter participation in elections, as it determines the fate of their government.

“Elected officials are obligated to serve as a voice to ‘represent’ the people’s will in their government. My commitment to you, the people of Smith County, is that you will never be in my rearview mirror. I’m here to listen to you, the citizens because I am one of you,” she said.

People can send an email to christina.drewry@protonmail.com, or call her at 903-571-2292.