Republican Beth Mizell said her victory in the State Senate District 12 runoff against Democrat opponent Mickey Murphy was a result of a focus on positive issues concerning the district.

Mizell, from Franklinton, earned 58 percent of the vote to Murphy’s 42 percent. Mizell received 19,404 votes to Murphy’s 14,033. District 12 includes all of Washington Parish and the northern parts of St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes.

“Our campaign was based on issues and positive ideas for the district,” Mizell said. “The voters in the district responded to a positive vision for the future of the area and Louisiana.”

Mizell vowed to take the people’s needs and desires with her to the state capitol.

“On taking this office my hope is to work hard and openly for the people of the district, to be available to the residents here and to represent this district in Baton Rouge in a way that honors the trust of the people here,” Mizell said.

The new senator said there are a number of needs in the district which need addressing, including Louisiana Highway 3241.

“There are many needs in District 12,” Mizell said. “Across the area we’ve waited for a new highway for a generation. Schools need attention and dedication from the public to improve for the good of all of our children and to bring economic growth.”

Murphy was gracious in defeat.

“I want to ask all of our citizens in this district to support our newly-elected officials at all levels, especially our new senator,” Murphy said. “I’m sure all of our newly-elected officials will work hard to justify the confidence the citizens put in them.”

Murphy said he will continue to work on boards. He serves on the State Board of Supervisors for Community and Technical Colleges and the Louisiana Student Financial Assistance Commission.

“If there is a way to keep the state moving forward, I’ll do it,” Murphy said.

Murphy said he was grateful for the support.

“I’ve just been overwhelmed, honored and humbled by all the outpouring of support for our campaign,” Murphy said. “I’m not going anywhere; they’re still going to have to deal with me.”