Although unofficial numbers have Republican Christine Benedict in the lead for the Independence line, the absentee ballots still waiting to be counted could sway the results toward current Democratic Town Supervisor Paula Mahan. A little more than 200 voters turned up Thursday, Sept. 10 for the Independence Party’s primary for Colonie Town Supervisor, and unofficial numbers from the Albany County Board of Election show Benedict ahead with 145 votes to 130. However, the final results should be released after the 70 absentee ballots are counted this Friday, Sept. 18, meaning Mahan could take the Independence Party line come November. Already 56 ballots have been returned, and the Board of Elections will accept postmarked ballots until Thursday, Sept. 17. Mahan is already backed by the Democratic and Working Families parties. Benedict is backed by the Republican and Conservative parties. But with the unofficial results, Benedict said, “I’m very happy. I’m elated that so many people put their trust in me.” Mahan said her campaign is looking forward to November 3, but her first priority is continuing her work as town supervisor. “I’m just going to keep working as hard as I can for the people of Colonie. We’re proud of our accomplishments over the last eight years,” said Mahan. This is the first election since Mahan took office the Independence Party has held a primary. Chairman Paul Caputo said the party has endorsed both Mahan and Benedict in the past, and wanted to allow its members to decide who to appear on the party line on November’s ballot. The Independence Party is also backing incumbent Paul Rosano and Tim Lane, both Democratic candidates, and Republican Jennifer Whalen for the three open Town Board seats.