TOLEDO, Ohio — Ohio politicians have released statements or used social media Saturday to react to the victory of the Biden and Harris presidential ticket, called by the Associated Press.
This is the first time a Democrat has won the presidential race without taking Ohio's electoral votes since former President John F. Kennedy was elected in 1960.
It's also the first time a female has been elected to serve as vice president. Kamala Harris is also the first Black woman and first person of South Asian descent to serve in this role.
Check what they had to say:
U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, who was re-elected Tuesday morning:
"Congratulations to the new President and Vice President Elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris!"
Kaptur's office also released the following statement, attributable to the Congresswoman:
“Congratulations to the new President and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris,” Kaptur said. “Thank you to all voters for their patience as each and every ballot was counted. It is clear the American people turned out in record numbers in favor of democracy, liberty, and compassion. With Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, we could not have asked for a better pair of leaders to unify the country, take on the coronavirus pandemic, and spur economic growth to create an opportunity for all. I am confident that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will be President and Vice President for every American. I look forward to working closely with President-Elect Joe Biden to bring our country together. Compassion and empathy will be our guiding principles in that effort as we work to restore political and economic power to working people and families.”
U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio:
A spokesperson for the senator referred to Portman's tweets from Friday as his statement:
"Seems pretty straightforward: Every ballot cast in accordance with state law should be counted. Those that are not cast in accordance with state law should not be counted.
As states work through counting the remaining ballots, both parties must be able to observe the process, as always, and any evidence of illegal activity should be investigated immediately.
Our courts and legal system are set up to resolve any disputes in accordance with the law. Then, once the final count has been completed, we will abide by the results, as we always have as Americans."
U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown:
“President-Elect Joe Biden’s story is one of loss, perseverance, and strength. He is a good and wise man, and his election proves that our country is choosing truth, decency, and unity overlies and division. Our country needs his and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris’s leadership now more than ever. We have work to do to address the challenges facing us: this pandemic, crippling inequality, systemic racism, climate change, and creating an economy that works for everyone. Biden and Harris are ready to restore hope and civility to the White House, come together to keep our democracy strong, and ensure that all work has dignity in this country.”
Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted:
"I was proud to be a delegate to the Republican National Convention and a Co-Chair for Donald Trump & Mike Pence in Ohio where we delivered a resounding win. It appears Joe Biden will be declared the winner of last week’s election & when election officials declare the final results, we should honor the outcome."
Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz:
"Congrats to President-Elect Joe Biden on his hard-fought victory. Now that the election is over, we must unite to confront the difficult challenges our country faces. I look forward to working with the president-elect on programs and policies that can help #Toledo." :
Ohio Sen. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green
"Joe Biden may very well end up being the President—and if he does we will certainly fight his radical agenda every day."
Former Republican Ohio Gov. Jon Kasich:
"Congratulations, President-Elect Joe Biden. I know you will do as you promised and be a president for the whole country."
U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Niles:
"The American people’s voices have been heard. It’s time for us to come together and get to work on behalf of working families across America."
State Sen. Teresa Fedor, D-Toledo:
"Congratulations President-elect Biden!"
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