Dear friends,

My hopes of representing the Florida House of Representatives in District 83 fell short last night. But I am gratefuly for the opportunity and the 23,000+ votes that I received.  All in all, I can sum up my last year and a half in three simple words:

Believe: Today more than ever, I can honestly say that I believe in my message more than when I first opened my campaign 16 months ago.  Running a campaign for the first time undoubtedly causes some question about whether or not I was capable of serving.  Without a doubt, I believe that I am qualified and would do a great job in the Florida Legislature.

Courage: As an unknown, a Democrat in this Republican-leaning district and running against a well-known name, I knew my work was cut out for me.  I also understood that in order for me to win, I would have to appeal to not only Democrats, but Independents, No Party Affiliates and Republicans.  This meant going to events in various parts of the district, including Tea Party meetings that aren’t always frequented by Democrats.  Although it was often difficult, I summoned the courage to talk to any constituent in my district and asked for their vote.  I believe that I was well received and well respected throughout the district and I am encouraged by their well-wishing.

Pride: Without a doubt, I am so very proud of my campaign, my effort, my message and my volunteers.  As a first-time candidate, I am humbled by the number of people who not only pledged their support, but were willing take time out of their day, and money out of their pocketbooks, to support me.  I am also proud of all those around me and a special thank you goes out to my consultants, Richard Giorgio and Francine Nelson, my manager, Jody Young, my two boys, Adam and Thomas and mostly my wife, Brandee.  Through it all, they pushed me, supported me and encouraged me to keep going.  I thank them for this.

I don’t know what the future holds, but today I can hold my head up high and remain honored by everyone’s support and commitment.  My future path will be decided by a higher power, and when that path lights up, I will whole-heartedly walk down that path with everything I’ve got to do the right thing.

Sincerely,

Mark