In the event a candidate contests the correctness of the announced results of an election by alleging either fraud or any other irregularities, the secretary of the election board receiving the petition shall set a hearing in the same manner as provided for recounts. Provisions for service of notice shall be the same as for recounts. The petition shall be filed with the secretary of the election board with whom the candidate filed the candidate's declaration of candidacy, unless otherwise provided for by law.

The district judge conducting the hearing or such other judge as may be assigned by the Supreme Court shall have the authority to issue subpoenas and compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence.