In part, Roberts wrote that "the strain upon (Workman's) physical and emotional condition disables her from continuing as a political candidate without unreasonably compr(om)ising her health."

The Democrats have proposed that Roberts sign a certificate saying simply, "I certify that Nancy Workman is physically or mentally disabled."

"If you require them to comply with the statute — not just substantially comply, but comply — you don't have this political gamesmanship," attorney Scott Daniels said in the hearing.

Roberts has so far declined to sign the Democrats' version, and Workman attorney David Jordan has said several times that the mayor intends to take no further action.

Chief deputy county district attorney Karl Hendrickson said no further action is needed since the letter "speaks for itself."

"What we seem to be hearing is that there is a set of magic words," he said.

It's uncertain whether the votes cast Wednesday for Ivory — during the short time that he was the official GOP candidate — will count for him. Ivory himself can only wait on the final outcome.

"We started putting our signs up (indicating his new status) and then got word this afternoon, so it looks like we'll have to wait at least another day," he said.

As for independent mayoral candidate Merrill Cook, he pronounced himself "delighted" with the outcome.

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E-mail: aedwards@desnews.com/I>