NORWICH – After the unsealing of 63 absentee ballots and one affidavit Tuesday morning, Mike Genute has officially won the Norwich City Court Judge Republican primary election, beating opponent Steve Natoli by a final vote count of 309 to 300.

“I am humbled with the results of the Republican primary for team Genute for judge,” said Genute. “I am thankful for everyone who assisted, supported, and encouraged my campaign.”

He continued, “I am very appreciative of everyone who not only heard, but listened to our message of the importance of the City Court Judge having a strong criminal law background.”

In the wake of the defeat, Natoli said, “No one can dispute that the existing political climate in our country has turned a great number of people away from the electoral process. But as the results from the Republican primary clearly demonstrate, every vote counts and even one vote can make all the difference.