Tensions were high on Tuesday’s election night as San Diego’s Civic Center downtown filled with supporters for each candidate. Every local news station had their equipment set up and prepared for interviews with as many candidates as they could grab. From council members to school board members, the candidates running in their race shared their goals and ideas for the upcoming year and eagerly watched the large screen that was set up showing the polling results throughout the night.
PLNU broadcast journalism students were able to be a part of the action, interviewing and documenting the night alongside the professional news stations. San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer was at the event showing his support for candidates, and even shared with PLNU reporter Samantha Watkins that he hopes to see his community set aside any differences and come together.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re Republican, Democrat, Independent. It’s all about San Diegans working together,” he said.
The two big names of the night running for Congress in the 52nd District, incumbent Democrat Scott Peters and Republican Carl Demaio, gave speeches and shared their goals for the upcoming year if elected.
Peters emphasized his wish to see an overall change in Congress, and DeMaio spoke of meeting the needs of a “new generation” who have felt let down by both political parties over the years.
Some local titles announced before the end of the night were Chris Cate, the City Council District 6 leader, and Mary Salas, Chula Vista’s new mayor.
Excitement filled the room until midnight as candidates took pictures, answered questions and spoke to San Diego community members. Many winners were announced, but Peters and DeMaio’s votes remained within two percent of each other throughout the night.
