“Are they calling it over already?” a voice echoed throughout the room.
Rachel Harder supporters gathered on Monday night to await the election results at the Paradise Canyon Golf Resort. Just before 8 p.m., shortly after polling closed in Lethbridge, CBC was already declaring a Liberal government in Canada.

Although it was beginning to look bleak for the Conservative Party to win the federal election, Harder supporters focused their attention locally. As the votes trickled in, excitement grew. It became apparent that Harder had won the Lethbridge riding and would soon be on her way to Ottawa.

Shortly after 9 p.m. Harder made her appearance at Paradise Canyon. She was greeted with excitement and loud cheers. The room waited anxiously for her to comment on the results. She then made her way to the front and delivered her victory speech.

Harder began by thanking her campaign workers and volunteers. She recognized them for the lengthy hours and the tremendous dedication they contributed to her campaign. As she spoke about their commitment, it was clear she was choking back tears. Harder explained that it was a long and gruelling campaign and everyone on her team worked tirelessly.

Harder then focused her speech on the future. She went on to explain that she would make sure that local voices are heard in Ottawa. She spoke about her commitment to the Conservative party and to the local constituency. Harder used four words to describe the conservatives and what is expected of them; “compassionate, caring, kind and visionary,” she said. The crowd let out a loud roar as she promised to carry forward with those directives.

Harder thanked the community for putting hope and trust in her as the conservative party candidate. She concluded her speech with a blessing to the citizens of the Lethbridge region and the nation.

Although by the end of the evening it was clear the Liberals won the majority government in Canada, Harder supporters did not let that bring them down. The crowd chanted Harder’s name and focused their attention on the local victory.