MANCHESTER, N.H. – After 258 days, Jay Ruais’ mayoral campaign is over. Now his mayoral administration is about to begin.
I’m so humbled and blessed to be standing before you as the mayor-elect of Manchester,” said Ruais.
On Tuesday, Ruais defeated opponent Kevin Cavanaugh to become the next mayor of Manchester, winning seven of the city’s 12 wards, with a tentative 488-vote margin of victory.
Ruais showed gratitude to a number of people during his victory speech, beginning with Cavanaugh, who he called a “devoted public servant and an amazing human being.”
He then thanked all of his fellow Republican candidates running across the city as well as all of those who volunteered for his campaign along the way, perhaps most notably his parents and his wife.
He also thanked all those in the city who saw him as a vehicle for to address the city’s problems.
“This victory belongs to you, it belongs to all of us, it belongs to everyone who knocked on doors, who made a phone call, who put up a yard sign. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I would not be here without you,” he said. “And this victory belongs to the people of Manchester who said they are no longer willing to accept the status quo.”
With the campaign now over, in which Ruais said over 40,000 doors had been knocked upon throughout the city, the task of governing is set to begin. He asked for the support of everyone in attendance at his victory party at the Derryfield Country Club, addressing issues such as homelessness, bail reform, education, economy and building new housing among others.
He also said that he hopes to work with others, even those he disagrees with, to address the city’s problems in a proactive and metrics-based manner.
“Imagine the possibilities of what could happen if we all work together in this city, if we put aside whatever our differences are and look toward the common purpose of focusing on the mssion, focusing on results and getting things done,” he said. “That is what we campaigned on and that is how we are going to govern.”
Ruais’ term, as well as those of the newly elected and re-elected Aldermen and Board of School Committee Members, will begin in January.
UPDATE: The following statements came in after Tuesday night’s results.
Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Kelly Ayotte
Last night, Joyce Craig’s agenda was roundly rejected by Manchester voters because it has brought them nothing but crime, homelessness, and chaos. Fortunately, brighter days are ahead in the Queen City with Mayor-Elect Jay Ruais. Yet, Joyce Craig is shamelessly running for Governor to bring the same policies that failed Manchester to every community in New Hampshire. Joyce has proven she cannot lead her own city — she has no business leading our entire state.
Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig
Congratulations to Mayor-Elect Jay Ruais on his well-earned victory. During my six years as Mayor, we’ve worked hard to make Manchester more affordable, keep our residents safe, and strengthen our schools. We’ve shown what is possible with dedicated public servants who have worked with us, from the Board of Aldermen and School Board to all the City and School District employees who work tirelessly on behalf of Manchester residents. I spoke with Jay this evening and believe he shares our dedication to making our city stronger for everyone.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my long-time friend Kevin Cavanaugh for running a campaign focused on what we love about our city and for his dedication to serving the people of Manchester. I know Kevin will continue to serve our city and fight to improve the lives of everyone in it.
New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman Chris Ager
I want to offer a huge congratulations to Jay and Manchester Republicans on their victories tonight. This is a big win.
Jay’s victory is the culmination of years of hard work. Jay, along with Manchester Republicans, earned a hard-fought win. I have full confidence Jay and his team will bring their talent and work ethic to bear in Manchester as they lead the city to a better future. A bright new chapter in the Queen City begins today.
