NATCHEZ — In perhaps one of the most talked-about — and closest — county races, the circuit clerk’s office is still up for grabs with five votes separating the two leaders.

Before affidavit and absentee ballots are counted, it appears Adams County will see a runoff between Eddie Walker and incumbent M.L. “Binkey” Vines.

Vines is leading by five votes at 2,375, or 26.4 percent of the votes. Walker has 2,370 votes, or 26.4 percent.

The other two contenders were close behind, with Donnie Holloway getting 2,216, or 24.67 percent, and Wilbur Johnson with 2,020, or 22.5 percent.

Vines seemed confident Wednesday night, but had little to say. “I put my trust in the Lord, and look what it did today,” Vines said.

Walker said he was not getting too comfortable with his position.

“I feel good about it, but five votes is no margin to jump up and wave your flag about,” Walker said. “If it comes to a runoff, we will work extremely hard. We’ll start as soon as all the ballots are counted.”

Affidavit ballots, for those not on the voter rolls, and absentee ballots will likely be counted by each party over the next few days.

But Walker was cautiously optimistic.

“It means we have a chance to win this race,” he said.

The race has been one to watch since Vines pleaded guilty to three counts of embezzlement in May. The specially-called judge withheld accepting Vines’ plea, which meant he could remain in office and run again, as long as he abided by good behavior.