The decision by the county election board not to re-tally ballots from the affected polling place has prompted Democrats to pursue a formal recount, according to party officials. The race has drawn attention because Garten, who is in line to become the GOP's leader in the Indiana Senate, is facing an unexpectedly tight margin.

The voting machine jam at the Clark County polling site was reported on Election Day, raising concerns about whether all ballots were properly recorded. The county election board reviewed the matter but declined to order a recount of those ballots, a decision that Democrats argue leaves questions unanswered.

Details about the exact margin between the candidates and the number of ballots affected were not immediately available. Democratic Party officials said they are gathering information and preparing the necessary paperwork to request a recount under state law.

The contest is significant beyond the immediate outcome: Garten's role as the presumptive Senate GOP leader means the race could affect the balance of power and leadership in the Indiana General Assembly. A recount in a single county could determine whether the seat remains in Republican hands or flips to Democrats.

Clark County election officials have not publicly commented on the Democrats' planned recount request. The Indiana Election Division, which oversees recounts, would need to approve any formal petition.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.