Ohio Senator-elect Portman "Hope and common sense triumphed"

Ohio US Senator-elect Republican Rob Portman took to the stage and declared "hope and common sense triumphed" after defeating Ohio Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher for the seat now held by retiring Republican Sen. George Voinovich.

Thanking his wife, supporters and voters the former congressman said he would work with Republicans and Democrats to solve the serious problems facing the state and the country.

He promised to go to Washington and fight for the simple principles of "private enterprise, personal responsibility and limited government."

If given the chance, Portman vowed to repeal the recent health care reforms and to fight cap and trade legislation. He said today marks "the opportunity for all of us to change direction" and bring back growth and jobs.

Portman served under former President George W. Bush as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Tonight he promised to work to simplify the tax code for small businesses, reign in spending and reduce debt.

"Like most victories this one came through teamwork," said Portman.