NATIONALS MP Michael Johnsen declared victory in his Upper Hunter seat on Sunday morning in one of the most closely-fought seats in the state.
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Even with more than three-quarters of the first preferences counted, Mr Johnsen held only 33.72 per cent of the vote, narrowly ahead of Labor's candidate, Cessnock mayor, Melanie Dagg (22.90 per cent).
The results to date show we have retained the seat of Upper Hunter and the government returned.
- Nationals MP Michael Johnsen
Ms Dagg and Mr Johnsen traded the lead on election night, but the incumbent boldly declared victory on the following morning.
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"With the election done and dusted, the results to date show we have retained the seat of Upper Hunter and the government returned," he said on social media.
"I would like to thank everyone that came together to run what was a tough campaign and put every effort in to win.
"Regardless of how people voted, I will continue to represent everyone's best interests and work hard for our wonderful communities in the Upper Hunter."
The ABC is predicting Mr Johnsen will retain the seat after preferences, but the outcome may not be known until next week if postal votes are needed.
Ms Dagg officially conceded defeat late on Sunday afternoon.
"Country Labor is proud of the fact that we ran a positive campaign focused on improving our hospitals, schools and infrastructure, protecting our water, and standing up for the pay and working conditions of our mining workers," she said.
"Our commitment to deliver for the people of the Upper Hunter continues, and I will be working hard every day to hold this government to account."