Arnold Schwarzenegger put an end to his 11-week campaign on Tuesday as he steam rolled into position as the state of California’s 37th governor.
Former City College student Steve Boelter went downtown after the election to celebrate Schwarzenegger’s victory.
“I don’t really think that much will change under Arnold, but I hate all politicians and he is not a politician,” said Boelter.
Chris Rebuk, a film studies major at City College was also downtown after the election. He was a supporter of Gray Davis and voted against the recall.
“We re-elected him last year,” said Rebuk, “so what good is it if we recall him before he’s had a chance to do anything?”
At the Republican Party gathering at Earl Warren Showgrounds, Gray Davis’ concession speech was shown on big-screen televisions tuned to Fox News strewn around the room. It was met with the sounds of boos and shouting.
One man yelled, “Get in the unemployment line.”
Another couple was overcome with joy.
“We’re elated, really and truly,” said Joseph and Victoria Conley, who described themselves as concerned citizens.
“This is a real positive direction as far as the economy, energy, employment, and taxes,” said Victoria. “This is just wonderful for the state of California.”
Channels exit polls showed that more men were voting for Schwarzenegger and women were voting against the recall.
“I voted no on the recall and Bustamante if it happens,” said
Jennifer Ferguson, a sociology major.
“I voted no on the recall, Bustamante if needed, and no on 54,” said Lauren Harrington, also a sociology major.
In his acceptance speech, Schwarzenegger said, ” I will not fail you. I will not disappoint you. I will not let you down.”
Schwarzenegger, who is remembered most for his role in the ‘Terminator’ films, has not been completely clear on what changes he will be making.
“I really and truly anticipated this victory,” said Michael Petlow, President of the Santa Barbara County Lincoln Club.
Petlow met Schwarzenneger a year ago at the home of the Kennedy-Shrivers, Schwarzenegger’s wife’s family, and was impressed with his ideas on Prop. 49.
“He thought the same as I do, Petlow said. “When he was asked what he’d do, He’d say, ‘it’s too early to think this out. I owe California. I owe America.'”
Petlow believes he is genuine.
“He knows nothing about government,” he said, “but he has gumption, and dedication.” The mood shifted as polls came in at Union Hall where nearly 30 democrats and hopeful Gray Davis supporters gathered Tuesday night.
Guests were greeted by a large clown bearing a sign that read, “No clowning around: vote no on recall.” 
“I don’t think we should give up hope just yet,” said host Steven Weiner, who is Secretary Treasurer of the county’s Building and Construction Trades Council. “We’ll have to see in the morning.” 
The guests didn’t have to wait that long. Davis announced his concession as Governor at 9:30 p.m. and hope was lost. 
“I don’t think Gray Davis let us down,” Weiner said as guests started to file out of Union Hall, “we let him down.” 
Meanwhile, guests at the Republican party were in very high spirits. 
“This margin of victory was unexpected,” said Brooks Firestone, local wine pioneer and former Los Olivos Assemblyman. “But the people of California spoke and I am happy tonight.” 
“Gray made a really good speech,” he said. 
Carpinteria city council member Greg Gandrud had his doubts prior to election night, but they were quickly erased. 
“I was nervous over the weekend with all the negative news stories circulating,” he said. “At this moment I am very happy for the state of California.”