Gannett prevailed in a proxy fight with hedge-fund-backed Digital First Media, according to a preliminary vote count. The election of Gannett's slate of eight nominees ensures the McLean, Va.-based publisher will retain control of its board of directors. “Consistent with the interactions with our investors leading up to the meeting, this outcome demonstrates that Gannett shareholders recognize the continued progress we have made toward our ongoing digital transformation and agree that our strategic plan is the best path to deliver value for all Gannett shareholders,” Gannett said in a Thursday statement.