GOOCHLAND -- A recount of the votes requested by Rep. Virgil Goode in Virginia's 5th Congressional District election is set for Dec. 16 and 17.

Circuit Court Judge Timothy Sanner set the dates Tuesday for recounting the 315,000 votes cast Nov. 4 in which the Republican incumbent narrowly lost to Democrat Tom Perriello.

The results certified by the Virginia State Board of Elections showed Perriello the winner by 745 votes. The margin of 0.24 percentage point entitles Goode to a recount at taxpayer expense.

Sanner entered an order setting the dates after a hearing in Goochland with attorneys for both sides on procedural matters. Sanner is chief judge in the circuit that includes Albemarle County, Perriello's home.

A three-judge panel will oversee the recount.

-- Associated Press