W E D N E S D A Y , N O V E M B E R 7, 2 0 1 2
OBAMA Networks call victory; Romney concedes race
Students celebrate announcement of Obama’s re-election
LANEY ELLISOR/THE DAILY
Members of the Young Democrats celebrate after multiple news networks announce President Barack Obama’s re-election during an election watch party Tuesday night at Seven47 on Campus Corner.
Students trickle in and out of watch parties near campus LINDSEY RUTA Campus Editor
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ELECTORAL VOTES AS OF PRESS TIME
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ELECTORAL VOTES AS OF PRESS TIME
Students gathered across campus Tuesday night to watch as the votes were tallied to decided the next president of the United States. Students whooped and cheered throughout the Oklahoma Memorial Union’s Meacham Auditorium when CNN projected the re-election of President Barack Obama. UOSA’s election watch party brought 40 to 50 students filtering in and out of the auditorium throughout the night. The event featured discussion, presidential trivia and an Electoral College prediction. Although UOSA representatives had hoped for more attendance, event coordinator Laura Shapino said she realized students came and went as much as their studying schedules would allow. Shapino said various other watch par- MORE INSIDE ties on campus also Opinion: Even probably contributed as you celebrate to the low turnout. or morn Obama’s Ultimately, UOSA’s victory, you must continue to call goal was to create a fun out his failures. and relaxing environ- (Page 4) ment for students to watch the election and spend time with friends — which she felt it achieved. This watch party marks the last event in the OU Votes campaign, Shapino said. She has been satisfied with the amount of political discussion UOSA has helped foster on campus, she said. Students of all affiliations attended the event. University College freshman Cassidy Quenten was one of those students. She said she voted for Obama out of fear of losing her financial aid under a Romney administration. University College freshman Lindsey Weiss also attended UOSA’s watch party. Weiss said although she is socially liberal, she voted for Republican candidate Mitt Romney because she is fiscally conservative and agrees with his economic policy. Weiss said she believes social issues should be handled on a state level. Nearly 50 people filled the Cate Center’s social lounge at 8 p.m. for SEE REACTION PAGE 2
STATE SENATE » DISTRICT 45
Paula Roberts edges out GOP incumbent Education will be an initial focus, Democrat says BROOKE HANKINSON Campus Reporter
In a tight race, Democratic candidate Paula Roberts beat Republican incumbent Aaron Stiles in the race for District 45’s seat in the Oklahoma Senate. District 45 covers the area around Lake Thunderbird. The patio at Sooner Legends erupted into applause and started to chant “Paula! Paula! Paula!” when Roberts’ victory was announced at her watch party. After hugging her daughter, who had quit her job with the show “Desperate
See a breakdown of election results News: Oklahomans voted for a complete Republican federal leadership and approved all of the state questions. (Page 2)
Housewives” to help her campaign, a tear y-eyed Roberts gave her victory speech. “I can’t believe I beat a Republican,” Roberts said. “I appreciate you guys, you guys made this happen.” Stiles lost in the 2008 general election, but won by 500 votes out of 12,000 cast in 2010 . Stiles served in the government modernization, judiciary and veteran and military affairs committees in the House during his time in office. Roberts said one of her first efforts will be to use her experience as a classroom teacher to promote all levels of education in Oklahoma, according to her website.
“I can’t believe I beat a Republican. I appreciate you guys, you guys made this happen.” PAULA ROBERTS, STATE SENATOR-ELECT
The Democrat taught business law and management at Norman High School before running for the District 45 seat. Roberts met many of her supporters through the educational system, and some of them have known Roberts for more than 30 years. Upon Roberts’ arrival, everyone at the watch party gave her a standing ovation
and shook her hand. While the results came in, Roberts nervously paced and bit her nails while taking the time to shake hands and talk with supporters. Sally Phillips, counselor at Southmoore High School, said Roberts is dedicated and in touch with people in the community. It shouldn’t be a surprise that Roberts won in a state that typically votes Republican, Phillips said. “ I have great faith in Oklahoma voters that people in Norman are educated enough on the candidates to stop the ridiculous partisan voting and vote on the issues and the people that are best for their needs,” Phillips said.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE » DISTRICT 20
Republican Bobby Cleveland wins
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PAIGHTEN HARKINS/THE DAILY
Bobby Cleveland stands next to a cake and congratulatory banner during his watch party at Libby’s Cafe in Goldsby, Okla. The Republican run his race for House District 20.