The election of 1063 was won in a landslide by Arnold Phillips. This former stockbroker turned politician won the hearts of the people with his compassion and genuine interest in the wellbeing of the people. Phillips trounced the former president Oscar McConnelough four votes to one. With his "ours to build" slogan, he promised to continue the infrastructure projects laid out by previous presidents as well as invest into education and career opportunities for all. Arnold's inauguration was moved from the Thompson Building to the nearby Geany Park in order to house the crowds flocking to the ceremony. Here are some highlights from Phillip's speech: "My fellow citizens of Minarquette, I stand here not as a man above you, but as one of you. I was not born to a legacy or a name. I worked the odd jobs, the late hours. I worked until the lights in the windows dimmed, and then a little longer. Not for myself, but to help those I could. I’ve always believed that a country, like a life, is not something given. It is something built. ‘Ours to build’ was never a slogan. It was a truth. When roads needed building, we rolled up our sleeves. When hard times came for us, we shared what we had. When the world turned uncertain, we held firm. That’s who we are. Not by accident, but by choice. In the years ahead, my focus will be on the very things that lay our foundation: education that empowers, work that fulfills, and infrastructure that connects. We will continue what others began - not out of tradition, but because it is right. We will not chase foreign applause or entangle ourselves in the distant affairs of other states. Minarquette’s voice is calm, its resolve unshakable. While the world grows loud. We grow wise. I am honored to walk this road with you. To work not above you, but alongside you. This is our land. This is our time. It is ours to build.”
