Republicans optimistic, celebrate their victories

Republicans celebrated Tuesday night at TownHouse Inn of Havre after seeing the election results.

People at Republican headquarters were gathered around a television displaying the results of the national races. Many individuals checked results on computers and phones for updates on the local races.

Kris Hansen, Stephanie Hess and Bruce Meyers were all present to celebrate their victories.

Start of the night

Bruce Meyers, who ran in House District 32, said that he felt confident about this year’s election.

“I think it’s going to be a Republican year,” he said. “I think the Democrats relied on the party faithful.”

Stephanie Hess, who ran in House District 28, said this was her first time running for an official position.

“It has been a great experience. ... I am feeling good about the night,” she said.

Kris Hansen, who ran in Senate District 14, felt confident about this year’s election.

“I think we are going to win,” Hansen said.

The Republican crowd appeared to be optimistic as they mingled around the room.

Reaction to results

As it became official that Hansen, Hess and Meyers took the lead in their races and were headed to victory, everyone in the room started cheering.

Hansen said she is thrilled with the outcome.

“It is my intent to work hard and serve hard. … I want to specifically tell Greg Jergeson, ‘thank you’ for all of his years of service,” she added.

Hansen said that she will head to Helena Nov. 12 to attend caucuses.

“We’ll start getting together as a party and decide what legislation looks good and what we can accomplish,” she said.

Hess said that she is honored to be able to represent the Havre area.

“It is not something I take lightly,” she said.

Hess added that she would like to see some form of tax relief be implemented. She also wants to improve infrastructure among other things.

“I’d like to thank Janet for running such a great campaign ..., " Hess added. “I really appreciate that she ran a clean campaign.”

Meyers said this was an experience that he has never had before.

“To have the vote and confidence of this many people and coming from out of nowhere – is truly amazing,” he said.

Andrew Brekke, Hill County Republican chair said that these results were not too surprising.

“We were looking at some internal numbers, and we felt pretty optimistic … It is a vindication of what we thought was going to happen.”