Montezuma County Republicans were feeling optimistic Friday night on Day 1 of Donald J. Trump’s presidency.
“I like what President Trump said,” Montezuma County GOP Treasurer Bob Toles said, talking about Friday morning’s inauguration. “He didn’t change from 18 months ago when he started running.”
A couple of dozen people gathered at an inauguration party at the Cortez Elks Lodge on Friday night after Trump took the oath of office. Partygoers could “meet the president” — a lifesize, cardboard cutout of Trump.
Theresa and Paul Hollar, Montezuma County emergency manager, said they were looking forward to Trump’s presidency.
“I’m excited for something new,” Theresa said.
Amanda Winter said she had waited eight years for the day. Trump addressed things appropriately in his inaugural speech, she said.
She said securing the country’s borders is important, and she is looking forward to what Trump will do with concealed carry gun laws. Winter said she has family members in the military, so she hopes that Trump will give the military what it needs to succeed.
Winter said the Affordable Care Act is too expensive, so she will be glad to see it repealed.
“I’m really excited to repeal Obamacare,” she said. “I’m excited about the next four years.”
Montezuma GOP Secretary Jan Gardner said she felt positive about Trump’s presidency. She said Trump’s inaugural speech was a little different, but she liked hearing what he had to say.
“I like the plan to change Obamacare and make it more palatable and more effective,” Gardner said. “I hope they come up with something that will help the underserved.”
jacobk@the-journal.com
