Republicans rejoice over Tuesday wins

It was a jubilant party at Nelly’s Tuesday night with great applause as each winning Republican candidate entered the room.

“I feel fantastic,” said Will Ellis, after his win for Randolph County clerk. “It was a great race. I am proud of Randolph county for voting so strong. I look forward to working with the ladies in the office. I’m so excited!”

Ellis referred to the uncharacteristic heavy turnout for this off-season election. Voter turnout, especially in this area of the state, was near or above 50 percent. Randolph county reported 49.66 percent. The Secretary of State site lists turnout for Chariton county at 52 percent, Monroe, 51.7 percent, Macon, 54.7 percent and Howard County at 46.9 percent.

It is unclear if the strong turnout was due to more Republicans showing up at the polls or just more voters voting against the way things have been for the last two years and voting from the top down.

Mike Fusselman won his re-election bid by exactly 100 votes, according to Tuesday night’s unofficial totals.

“This is the first time I have had to run except for the first time,” said Fusselman. “I’ve learned a lot and hope to help future candidates through the experience I have gained.”

Fusselman is looking forward to this new term differently than in the past because voters approved to make the position full-time. Fusselman said he is excited because it will allow him to spend more time on complicated cases and develop other options for non-violent cases.

While most of the county races were very close, Randy Asbury won by a large margin over his competitor Doug Galaske.

“By God’s grace,” said Asbury.

There’s no waiting until January for the District 22 Representative-elect. Wednesday he was to go to Jefferson City for a majority caucus leadership session. Later in the month the newly elected reps will tour the state to learn about the various issues that face the state and the district.

“I will talk to a lot of people,” said Asbury. “There will definitely be an educational curve to overcome.”