HAMTRAMCK, Mich. – The contentious race for Hamtramck mayor faces new complications as both candidates pursue legal action and a recount looms, weeks after Election Day produced one of the closest margins in the city’s history.
Nov. 4, 2025: Election Day
- Initial unofficial results show Adam Alharbi leading Councilman Muhith Mahmood by 11 votes.
- Total ballots cast exceed 4,000 in the mayoral race.
Nov. 6, 2025: Discovery of uncounted ballots
- 37 uncounted ballots were discovered in the city clerk’s office
- The following week, the City Clerk, Rana Faraj, was placed on administrative leave pending investigation.
Nov. 10, 2025: First legal challenge
- Alharbi files lawsuit challenging Mahmood’s eligibility to serve.
- Lawsuit alleges Mahmood resides in Troy, Michigan, not Hamtramck.
- City charter requires one year of residency before filing for the mayoral office.
Nov. 14, 2025: Certification decision
- Wayne County Board of Canvassers meets to consider 37 uncounted ballots.
- Board splits 2-2 along party lines.
- Split vote results in rejection of uncounted ballots.
Nov. 18, 2025: Results certified
- Board certifies election results showing Alharbi winning by six votes (2,066 to 2,060)
Nov. 24, 2025: Counter legal action
- Attorney Mark Brewer files a lawsuit on behalf of Mahmood.
- Legal action targets the city of Hamtramck and the Wayne County Board of Canvassers.
- Lawsuit seeks to force counting of the 37 discovered ballots.
Dec. 2, 2025: Recount proceedings
- Manual recount scheduled to begin
- Election workers to examine all ballots cast
- The process includes reviewing both in-person and absentee ballots.
The new Hamtramck mayor is set to take office on Jan. 1.