The official results are in. I received 1736 votes or 39.1% of the votes cast, no where near enough to win the election. Nevertheless, we won over a lot of hearts and minds in the process. As I already wrote, I've had the time of my life and have no regrets.
At least three working-class men came out of the polling place yesterday, looked me right in my eye, and told me they were all set to vote for me until they saw on the ballot that I was a Democrat.
We have a lot of work to do.
I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your support, your well-wishes, and your votes. I couldn't have made such an impression on the people of this district without your help.
We ran the best campaign this district has ever seen and we have done a big part to change the conversation. It seems more people are talking about healthy, local food more than ever before. Early morning of the election, I was putting up a sign on the main intersection of in-town Readfield and a woman rolled down her window to tell me that she would be rooting hard for me all day. That she and her husband lived in Mt. Vernon and therefore couldn't vote for me, but they wanted me to win so badly. There, in the dark, after their car traveled down Route 17 headed toward Manchester, I got all choked up. And then I smiled.
I am both proud and humbled to have made such a difference.
While many of you have already expressed encouragement that I run again in 2012, all I can say right now is that I can't see past the 10 pounds of garlic I still need to plant before the ground freezes.
I can promise you this:
I will continue to do what I do with a passion.
Thank you again. Take care of your blessings.
Craig V. Hickman
Winthrop
4 comments:
It is only in the Northeast (I live in N.J.) that citizens of the U.S. think that being a "republican" is somehow a judicious thoughtful decision to make. Having grown up in the deep south I know that is, uh, delusional?
39% is not shabby! Good for you. A lot of people supported your positions.
Sorry to hear that you lost, Craig, but think of it this way - your first time out and you won 40% of the vote. You ARE the type of person that we need in public life. Come on, Craig. It's nice to win on your first try, but now, you are an experienced campaigner, and your name is out there.
I am so very proud of you. When the GOP gets done screwing things up and repealing Dirigo Health, then the stage will be ripe for the Democrats return. Keep fighting for love, peace and hair grease, Craig.
Yes, Angelle, you are right. 1,736 people supported my positions. And they gave me their precious vote. I'm eternally grateful.
rikyrah, thanks for your support. Whatever will be will be. I haven't ruled anything out. As a farmer, I can only see a season ahead at a time.
skepticalbrotha, your words mean a great deal to me as I have deeply respected your blog from a distance. And I see that you are going to run for something as well? That's simply awesome. You have my support. To love, peace, and hair grease.
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