OPINION: Stark voters called for conservative values to lead the way

We watched the screen tirelessly, eyes glued as each result rolled in. Win after win, the momentum built, and you could feel the collective heartbeat of the room rise.
When Bernie Moreno clinched the U.S. Senate seat, the energy spiked, a renewed surge of hope rippling through everyone. Hours slipped by, but time felt suspended.
As it neared 3 a.m., Pennsylvania was called for Donald Trump, and then, in a final, thunderous moment — Alaska. With 270 electoral votes, it was over.
The room at the Stark County Republican Party headquarters erupted. Our GOP election party thundered with chants, voices booming in unison, “FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!” followed by a patriotic chorus of “USA, USA, USA!”
I didn’t leave until 4:30 a.m., running on nothing but adrenaline and getting maybe three hours of sleep — but it was worth every second.
Being on the front lines of a Trump win this year was a surreal and unforgettable experience, a campaign season that truly redefined dedication and unity.
As the executive director of the Stark County Republican Party and serving as a manager with the Ohio House Republican Alliance during this election season, I experienced the unique energy, tension and pride that came from fighting for something much larger than yourself.
From packed rallies where supporters gathered in record numbers with flags waving high to the early-morning calls when our team strategized our next moves, this was a season charged with deep purpose. And it wasn’t just our team; every supporter, from young first-time voters to veterans who had seen decades of political shifts, came together to restore a vision of America rooted in freedom, strength and opportunity.
The weeks leading up to election night were an unforgettable testament to grassroots energy and resilience. Stark County echoed with the gravity of what was at stake — everywhere we went, whether neighborhood gatherings, community centers or county fairs, people shared their stories, their hopes and even their fears about the future. They spoke of what this election meant to them, personally and profoundly.
These weren’t just votes; they were voices calling out for change, for leadership, for a future where conservative values could help lead the way.
As results started coming in, our headquarters transformed into a powerhouse of emotion. Every cheer and every anxious glance exchanged across the room was fueled by months of hard work. And when the victory was finally confirmed, it was as if a wave of relief, joy and triumph washed over us all. We’d done it.
Seeing Trump win wasn’t just a political victory; it felt like validation for the dedication of so many. Our team understood that a Trump victory would send waves of support for down-ballot candidates, helping us secure critical seats at the local, state and federal level.
His win underscored the resilience of conservative values and reminded us all of the power that lies in grassroots effort and unity. It was a moment where everyone — from staffers to community members — felt the weight of their contribution to a shared mission. The pride was palpable, and it was a feeling I know I’ll carry with me for a lifetime.
Looking forward, I feel even more passionate about this path than when I first began. I know I want to run for office someday, though the exact path and timing remain open. But for now, I’m focusing on gaining experience and learning from seasoned leaders who inspire me.
I’m hopeful for the opportunity to work alongside Senator-elect Bernie Moreno as he begins his term or perhaps even serve in the White House under President Trump. Whatever the future holds, I’m ready to continue growing, learning, and helping shape the future of the conservative movement.
If you’re a young person reading this and you feel called to make a difference, I encourage you to reach out to your local county Republican Party, whether it’s Stark County GOP, Summit County GOP or wherever you’re from. There’s always room for dedicated voices to join the effort and to shape a stronger future.
Let’s get to work on building a better tomorrow, together.
Chris Vogt is the executive director of the Stark County Republican Party. He can be reached at [email protected].