Tuesday, November 2, 2010
8:51 PM
Walker's backers enthusiastic, Barrett supporters anxious
Scott Walker’s Election Night party bristled with enthusiasm shortly after the polls closed, while Tom Barrett’s party was more a scene of quiet anticipation.
At Walker’s party, a growing crowd of perhaps a thousand people was filling two grand ballrooms at the Country Springs Hotel in Pewaukee. Returns are being projected onto two large screens, one in each ballroom, tuned to Fox News. The largest ballroom has a stage and open floor while the second has tables and chairs scattered throughout. The sign on the curtain behind the stage in the large ballroom reads “Scott Walker: Wisconsin is Open for Business.”
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Walker's brown bag bus is parked in front of the venue. Parking is becoming scarce and people are lining the road adjacent to the hotel.
Shortly after 8 p.m., about 100 supporters were gathered at Serb Hall on Milwaukee’s south side for Barrett’s party.
Although as many as 300 people were expected, the hall was quiet as Barrett supporters mulled over the results from other elections around the country over a few pitchers of beer.
As expected, the media is here in force, occupying nearly half of the ball room. Barrett himself is not expected to show until the results are called. He is currently with his family enjoying dinner and watching the results in private.
The people in attendance are lining up at the bar, snacking, and remaining optimistic. Despite the recent polls showing Walker ahead, there was a silent determination in the air.
-- By David Wise and Jimmy Theo
Labels: 2010_fall_election
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