When we kicked off this race for mayor nearly four months ago, we held fast to three simple ideas:
- Elmirans want a choice
- They believe in -- and want to be part of -- the city's resurgence
- And they want leaders who listen
Well, we listened. And tonight, Elmirans have spoken.
We really had two main goals. The first was to re-energize the political process here in Elmira by giving people a choice.
We succeeded. Democrats from all corners of the city turned out to vote. We gave them a real choice. We can be very proud of that.
The second goal was to offer a vision of growth. A vision of safety. A vision of revitalization. A vision that's hopeful and positive.
Again, we succeeded. Elmirans are ready for positive change, and we're going to give it to them.
This was not a victory over Dan Royle, but a victory for the future of Elmira.
I do want to acknowledge Dan Royle and his campaign. He was a worthy competitor. Throughout this campaign, he was positive, and not personal. I look forward to working with him and all his supporters in the future.
I'm humbled by the results of today's voting. I'm excited about what it means. And I'm thankful to all who made it possible.
I want to thank each and every voter, and the people on my committee and beyond who believed in me, my message, and the campaign we put together. Your time spent dropping literature, labeling postcards, calling voters, and offering advice proved invaluable. For those who gave money, I thank you for your faith in me and this great effort.
Thank you all.
Next stop: November 8th!
