Pepper: "I love Election Day!"

In his victory speech, Pepper first thanked his two unsuccessful opponents, Reece and Winburn, for running such spirited, energetic and passionate campaigns. He said he would work hard between now and November to earn the votes of their supporters and to build on that passion.

"I love Election Day! I love it. It's a day where I'm reinvigorated about our great city. It's a day where I get to talk to citizens again and again and again.''

"We can make Cincinnati the best hometown in American once again. For all Cincinnati.''

He didn't mention Mallory's name, but he said there were "clear differences'' between him and his opponent. He said his priorities would be: safety; working with youth and with schools; and spurring economic growth.

"And I'm ready to get it done. ... We've laid it out. It's clear. It's too late the day after the election to start thinking about what we do next.''

"We've had years of failed leadership. But this election is the moment when we can change it.''

Pepper's new slogan: "Get It Done From Day One."

-- J.P.