Tony Blodgett was selected by the Decatur County Republican Caucus Thursday night. The winner had to receive 11 of 20 votes to win. However, it took 8 rounds with 9 candidates involved. The top two throughout the vote were Blodgett and Rob Duckworth. When all other candidates were eliminated and it was down to the two – guess what, they both had 10 votes! Decatur County Republican Chair Nathan Harter said that in the event of a tie, he could cast the tie breaking vote, however he declined to do so and asked for one more round of votes. The outcome was 11 for Blodgett and 9 for Duckworth. Prior to the vote by Republican precinct committee members, candidates had an opportunity to give a 3 minute speech.
Blodgett had an opportunity to address those in attendance last night following the vote. These are comments made to WTRE –
Blodgett was sworn in by Decatur Circuit Court Judge Tim Day last night.
Blodgett fills out the remained of the term of Charles Emsweller who passed away recently. A moment of silence in memory of Emsweller took place.
Comments from Decatur County Republican Chair Nathan Harter –