Republican Maureen Josh accepted her position as the DeKalb County Circuit Clerk Tuesday night surrounded by the people she loves.

Maureen Josh defeated Democrat Josh Boies 26,359 votes to 15,907.

She credited the people who helped her throughout her campaign for her victory.

“Every single one of you has done more than I could have ever imagined someone would do for someone who wants to be the circuit clerk,” Josh said. “Circuit clerk is a job where you really can’t legislate or do anything other than provide good government, and the people of DeKalb County care who their circuit clerk is, and I’m happy to be their circuit clerk.”

Josh said she put in a lot of work in her campaign, and she is relieved that it is finally over.

“It’s been a long year,” Josh said. “A great deal of work has gone into this and we’re happy to do the work but it’s wonderful to have wonderful results.”

Diane Mathey, Maureen Josh’s campaign manager, said she believes running a positive campaign helped Maureen Josh prevail.

She said Maureen Josh ran on her credentials rather than attacking her opponent.

Josh Boies commented on his defeat at the DeKalb County Democrat gathering.

“The voters of DeKalb County have spoken,” Boies said. “I congratulate Maureen Josh on her victory. I feel honored to have offered voters of DeKalb County a choice for a change.”

Boies said his future plans will include integrity.

“I’m going to enjoy Barack Obama’s victory tonight,” Boies said. “I plan to continue to tell the truth, stand up for what is right and never back down.”