09/18/2012
THANK YOU!!!
As you may already know, my NYS assembly bid has come to an end.
The primary election had an extremely low turnout. About 2,000 votes, out of a potential of 40,000, were cast.
My team and I worked very hard. Aside from all the folks my team spoke with, I personally met with well over 2,000 people who told me that they would support me. Obviously, the fact that the election was held on a Thursday for the first time in recent memory, and that there were 2 other primaries before this date, contributed to the low turnout.
But in the end, I believe that my desire to run a campaign focusing only on the issues was incorrect. People may say that they do not like negative campaigns, but the fact is that they do have a significant impact on the electorate. While my opponent took every opportunity to dish out personal attacks against me, my reluctance to bring his animal abuse arrests record, his personal sexual harassment settlements, his IRS tax liens and other allegations to the forefront cost me much needed votes. Having witnessed this phenomenon personally, I am now fully convinced that people form an opinion of a candidate every which way the opponent presents it, regardless of facts or truth. Learned this lesson.
On primary day, while I beat my opponent 75% to 25% in my hometown where many people actually know me well, he beat me on the overall count 60% to 40%. Not the crushing defeat he was hoping for, but a loss nonetheless.
As with any exprerience, there are many positive aspects. I did meet a LOT of good people, which I truly enjoyed, and I got to make new friends that will surely be part of my life going forward. I joined the volunteer Fire Department in my town and will surely continue to be part of the department and the community in years to come. And I have an open invitation to every senior center in the area where I met lots of great people and made many new friends.
Lastly, I especially want to mention that your support, generosity and involvement throughout the duration of this campaign was invaluable and greatly appreciated. I will always treasure your kindness and will never forget it. As I transition back to my work life, I can tell you with certainty that my desire to serve my community, my state and my country has not diminished. I will continue to stay involved in the district and will keep an open mind toward the future.
Once again, please accept my sincerest thanks for your generosity, assistance and support.
Regards,
Dario.
