The Red and Black

Issue date: 11/5/08 Section: News

Media Credit: JASON BROOM Sen. Bill Cowsert celebrates his reelection with friends and family while watching the presidential election at his home in Athens.

Incumbent State Sen. Bill Cowsert celebrated a hard-fought victory for District 46.

With 92 percent precincts reporting, Cowsert got in 56.8 percent, and Democrat opponent Sherry Jackson fell behind with 43.2 percent.

"This term, we will spend more time closely analyzing Georgia's budget," Cowsert said. "We don't want to make budget cuts across the board, but rather look at every agency and prioritize important areas including higher education."

Kristin Bernhard, a senior from Roswell, said she looks forward to Sen. Cowsert's continued service.

"I'm pleased that he fully supports the creation of UGA's medical college ... It would greatly benefit the local economy and increase research and post-graduate opportunities."

Across town, long lines crowded the Melting Point as supporters of Jackson awaited the election's outcome.

"She has great ideas and has put forward effort," said Fausto Sarmiento, University graduate from Athens.

Jackson's efforts seemed to dwindle at the beginning of the evening as initial results put her behind Cowsert. The energy of her supporters remained high throughout the evening as they waited to hear about her loss. Jackson left before announcing the result, and Red & Black reporters were unable to speak with her.

"Bill Cowsert has been a great senator," Sarmiento said. "Hopefully she won't let this setback be the end of her political career."

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