James M. Kennedy is leading the race for the County Prosecuting Attorney and Coroner's Office, according to preliminary election results released at 8 p.m. Nov. 6 by the Jefferson County Auditor's Office.

With 8,801 votes cast, or 59.74 percent, Kennedy led over incumbent Michael Haas, who received 5,931 votes cast, or 40.26 percent. A total of 14,732 votes were counted for this race as of 8 p.m.

The official tallies will be updated and officially certified Nov. 27.

Kennedy said he is looking forward to serving the community.

"I am exceptionally grateful for the support I received from the community this year,” he said. “I look forward to stabilizing the office and returning the focus towards serving the community and victims of crime.

In response to the initial results, Haas, who has been the prosecutor and coroner since 2015 after defeating Democrat Scott Rosekrans, said he was grateful to all of this supporters.

“Thank you to everyone that aided in our campaign,” Haas said. “Thank you too, to the voters of this county for electing me four years ago. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve you. During my administration we made great strides in utilizing our therapeutic courts while simultaneously increasing prosecutions of violent and sex crimes. I hope that progress will continue.”

Haas said he wishes Kennedy well, adding he would “do my best to facilitate a smooth transition between our two administrations.”

For the near future, Haas will take time to reconnect with his family.

“I’ve not seen enough of my family over the past four years, so a long family vacation is in order,” he said. “After that, we’ll see what the future yields. I’m fortunate to have a number of meaningful opportunities available to me.”