Democratic veteran officeholder Lenny Eliason topped Republican rookie challenger Matt Gaiser by about 28 percentage points in last night's election for Athens County commissioner.
Eliason, who has served as Athens County commissioner for 12 years, received about 64 percent of the votes compared to Gaiser, who received about 36 percent of the votes in last night's race.
Although the official results will not be released until Nov. 16, Eliason received about 10,300 votes, while Gaiser received about 5,800 votes.
This election is Gaiser's first time running for office. Eliason has been in office since 1998.
I think it is important to elect people that are experienced and really understand the Athens government
Eliason said.
Eliason said he plans to continue focusing on the Athens County budget because it determines what services the county can or cannot provide for the people.
(I) plan to continue to work to provide effective government to Athens County he said. (I am) very happy with the result though the votes were close earlier.
Prior to the release of the results, Eliason said he felt confident about his chances of being re-elected.
I got a good response from the people of Athens
he said.
Despite Gaiser's loss, the 11-year resident of Athens said he enjoyed the overall experience of running for office.
It was all a pleasant
enjoyable and positive experience that I was prepared for
Gaiser said.
Even though Gaiser enjoyed running, he said he was disappointed with the results.
I'm disappointed but not surprised
he said. I would have loved to have won
but it is my first time in politics and I was running against a strong opponent. I respect and congratulate Lenny.
Gaiser said he knew being elected would be difficult because he is a Republican running in Athens, but he plans to run again in two years.
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