Trump is projected to be the 45th President-elect of the United States, and Tennesseans have sounded off.
Most national polls showed Trump trailing by 3-4 points to Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton as polls opened Tuesday morning, but the New York businessman turned states from blue to red across the upper Midwest en-route to at least 274 Electoral College votes.
People who were out Tuesday night stayed up to watch the results and some of them spoke with NewsChannel 5 before finally heading home for the night.
Although some admitted that Trump wasn't their first choice, others said they have been pro-Trump all the way.
“I'm a straight shooter I tell it how it is and he's going to be the same way. I don't care about his comments I don't care about any of that because he's a smart business man,” said Amanda Williamson, of Nashville.
The state GOP has been divided during Trumps presidential campaign. Yet, after the projection was announced the GOP released a statement of congratulations.
“Americans spoke loudly tonight. They want this nation to be even better than it already is. I want to congratulate Donald Trump for his win in the race for President of the United States. The task falls to him to unite this country and promote the policy solutions that will enhance opportunity for each and every American. Closer to home, Tennesseans have decided to maintain—and enlarge—the Republican supermajorities in our state. It’s easy to understand why: More Tennesseans have a job than ever before, we’ve achieved new heights in education, and our state has been run in a fiscally-responsible manner under GOP leadership. We’re providing a blueprint for how this nation should be run and that would not be possible without the steady, conservative hands of Governor Bill Haslam, Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey, and Speaker Beth Harwell, as well our Republican legislators.” - Chairman Ryan Haynes
U.S. Senator Bob Corker also released the following statement congratulating Trump.
"The American people and the citizens of Tennessee have spoken in a remarkable and resounding way, and I congratulate President-elect Trump on his hard earned win," said Corker. "The real work now begins as we address the many challenges facing our great country, and I am looking forward to working with President Trump and the rest of the Congress to move our country forward."
“Congratulations to President-elect Trump. The election belongs to the people and the people have voted for change. Donald Trump is the agent for that change. Now it is the responsibility of the President-elect and the Congress to work together to address the voices of anger and despair, and of hope, that we heard yesterday. This includes reducing Washington’s role in our lives, making it easier to find a good job and less expensive health care, and making our system more fair. It’s time to put the election behind us. The way to make change and move our country in the right direction is to work together to bring out the best in all of us.” - Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.)
"In truly historic fashion, Donald Trump has been elected President of United States capturing the votes of millions of forgotten Americans confounding experts and establishmentarians across the globe.
Quite simply, he has shocked the world. His "America First" positions on trade, immigration and foreign policy spoke to a large portion of the electorate which has been denied a voice for a long time.
Trump has given voice to frustrated and alienated voters who had all but given up on the political process. Now that voice will be heard.
Today we begin the hard work of fulfilling the Trump promise to make America great again. I hope all Americans join me in support of President-elect Trump as he endeavors to fulfill his essential mission." - Lt. Governor Ramsey (via Facebook)
“It’s an honor to continue serving Middle Tennesseans in Congress. There has never been a more important time for civility. I hope the president-elect will pledge to represent all people – including those who legitimately and genuinely feel threatened by him – not just those who voted for him.” - Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05)
“I want to congratulate President-elect Donald Trump and his supporters on their victory last night. My hope is that he will serve this nation with the honor and distinction that we have come to expect from our Presidents, and that he will work with members of both parties to move our nation forward for all Americans.
“In his victory speech, Mr. Trump committed to investing in infrastructure in a way that puts more Americans to work. As mayor, I intend to work with his administration to ensure Nashville is able to take advantage of this commitment to improve our roads and bridges, transit infrastructure, and schools.” - Nashville Mayor Megan Barry
