KUER News Transcript: June 28, 2000
By Vince Pearson
Some one hundred and fifty people gathered in the library at Salt Lake City's Lowell Elementary school last night to support Governor Mike Leavitt in his bid for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. It was a light-hearted affair, as supporters had professed unwavering confidence that their candidate would win. Supporters mingled and grooved to oldies music as they watched the elections results trickle in. Voters favored Leavitt 60 percent to 40 most of the night.
By 10 o'clock, Leavitt acknowledged victory in what
he called a tough race.
LEAVITT: It was a demanding experience
as it always is to run for office. But it was an enjoyable
experience. I've been in almost every region of the state.
I've been able to debate the issues, with a very capable opponent.
It's given me access to lay out the themes of the campaign.
More than a hundred Davis supporters
gathered at the candidate's home in Holladay, for a large
outdoor picnic in the back yard. The mood here was relentlessly
optimistic, despite the governor's consistent 20-point lead.
When Davis finally conceded defeat, he congratulated the governor.
But he claimed victory of a different sort for himself and
his followers.
DAVIS: It is a victory because 40
percent of the people of Utah have spoken and said that we
need a change, we need to be heard. And I believe the governor
can make a mid-course correction.
Davis stopped short of endorsing
Gov. Leavitt, but did not rule it out. He's hoping to meet
with Leavitt before his general election campaign, to discuss
issues important to him and his supporters. The political
unknown forced a primary, in part by appearing more conservative
than the governor on issues like taxes, public lands, and
gun rights. Leavitt has worked hard to mend relations with
the conservative wing of his party. He says the party will
be there for him in November.
LEAVITT: "I feel very confident that
the Republican party will move together now toward the general
election. This has been a very low voter turnout. I would
say if I have any disappointment today, it would be that more
Utah's didn't participate. I feel confident that will be different
in the general election as we begin to talk about the important
themes of improving education, better jobs for the state,
and how we can maintain Utah as a safe, quality place to live."
Leavitt now faces former Utah congressman
Bill Orton in the November election.
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