Republican T.C. Rogers has bested opponents Jodi Billerman (Democrat) and Libratarian Daryl Olthaus.

The 64-year-old builder and real estate broker beat two long-time county Republicans — incumbent Charles “Chuck” Furmon and state Rep. Courtney Combs — in the primary, setting up the three-way race of newcomers. Rogers, a native of Butler County who now lives in West Chester Twp., has been involved with the county GOP since 1988 but has never held elected office.

Watching returns with friends Tuesday night, Rogers said he was humbled and looked forward to representing all people in Butler County when making decisions on commission.

“I have already been attending budget hearings,” Rogers said, noting he is ready to get the county on the right financial track.

“Our neighbors do not just want someone to sit on the commission,” he said. “They want something to happen.”

Rogers said he never took for granted that he would win the election, despite Republican dominance in county offices.

Balancing the county’s estimated $78.6 million budget and improving relations among county office holders will be top goals for Rogers.

Billerman, of Liberty Twp., and Olthaus, of Milford Twp., both argued that the Republican stronghold partly contributes to the scandals and charges of corruption that have dogged Butler County in recent years.

Billerman watched election returns with fellow Democrats celebrating the re-election of President Barack Obama.

“I congratulate Mr. Rogers,” Billerman said. “I do hope that he puts first the well being of the county as as a whole and all taxpayers.”

She added she is humbled by the votes she received.

“People did go outside their label for me,” Billerman said. “I am honored to have been a new voice that put some things to the forefront that have been said to me.”

Olthaus said he was a bit disappointed by the outcome, but is heartened that the Libertarian party did receive recognition during the election.

“I am not out of it,” Olthaus said. “I am definitely looking to run again.”