To Tallahassee and Back: My Post-Election Musings

Now that Primary Election Day is behind us, candidates throughout our community, and the state, are either headed to new offices or are returning to their previous ones. Others have made it over the first hurdle that leads them to the general election in November. 

State Senator Mike Fasano, State Representative Richard Corcoran and Sheriff Chris Nocco are just a few of the local leaders who fall into these categories on August 14. Congratulations to them and everyone else who was victorious.

With every election comes the flipside of the coin; the defeated candidate. 

Whether that person was an incumbent or a challenger, losing an election is not a fun experience. In 1992 I lost a bid for the New Port Richey City Council in my first, and so far only, bid for public office.  It was a humbling experience that lead me to question many things about myself and why I ran.  I soon discovered that there was a bigger plan for my life then I ever realized at the time.

About five months after the election, my wife and I found out we were expecting our first child  Not too long after that I was asked by my good friend Mike Fasano to be a part of his run for the Florida House in 1994. He won, and I joined him as his first legislative assistant.  I have been with him ever since.

To those who did not  make it past the primary I offer my heartfelt condolences.  If you have a true heart for public service you will come to know that there is a reason for the outcome of this election. Perhaps something better is around the corner. Perhaps it just was not your time. Take the opportunity to learn from it and turn it into something positive. Trust me, from someone who has been there, you can go either way with it.  It is up to you how you walk away from this experience.

To all who won last night, I offer my heartiest of congratulations. Whether you have a general election yet to come, or your campaign is over, be prepared to do all that you can to serve well the people who put you there.

Senator Mike Fasano’s victory was a referendum of his 18 years as a lawmaker.  He is obviously doing something right.  I trust that everyone who has been honored with a victory will take the sacred trust of public service and make it uniquely their own.  Make us all proud!

I welcome your comments and questions about the primary election, the legislative process, state government or any related matters.  Please feel free to leave your questions in the comment section and I will answer them in an upcoming post.  If there is a specific topic you would like me to write about please let me know as well.  I look forward to responding to your comments!