At the DeKalb County Republican Headquarters, a young girl spent time writing “Go Bush!” and “Bush for President!” in red and blue letters on a white dry erase board Tuesday.

Her wish might have to wait ,however, but local Republicans say there will be a time to celebrate.

Confidence rose throughout election night as President George W. Bush seemed to open a slight lead on Sen. John Kerry.

Announcements from media projecting key states for Bush sent cheers throughout the Coldwell Banker Reality Offices,where many Republicans gathered to support Bush and State Representative Bob Pritchard.

“Bush at 237. This is great. This is great,” said Sen. Brad Burzynski, after hearing that Bush was the projected winner for Florida.

Fred Cederholm of Creston, there supporting Pritchard, said the Florida numbers surprised him a little because polls showed a dead heat or a Kerry win.

“Now Ohio is going to be critical. I wanted two things to happen today: A large turnout and for this to be over tomorrow. I don’t think the second thing will happen,” Cederholm said.

Pritchard said he was happy to hear the news and expects voters to get Bush the 270 electoral votes he needs to win. Although Kerry won Illinois, Pritchard said he was pleased with DeKalb’s strong Bush showing.

Several Republicans said Bush will continue his presidency, but many do not think a winner will be officially announced for at least a few days.

“It’s going to be difficult to call today with all the provisional ballots and absentee ballots,” said Andrew Nelms, chairman of the NIU Republicans.

Earlier in the night at the headquarters, Republicans spent time watching television screens and huddling around a computer showing early election results.

“I think it’s going to be a long night. I really don’t know what’s going to happen, it’s just too early to tell anything yet,” said Mary Simons, chairman of the DeKalb County Republicans.

Others thought a winner would be apparent before the night’s end.

Christine Johnson, DeKalb County treasurer, said she expected a strong showing for Bush and said the election would not be as close as many people think.