This race is no longer between the Republicans and Democrats.
Through sad tragedy, followed by tactical — monetary decisions, this race is something totally different.
In science, the control factors help to provide clarity on what hypothesis will be determined true. Similarly, here, the Republican Party of Florida decision to place all their bets on big money will certainly be a flash-point for politicos to ponder for some time after November 6th.
Let me back up and provide context.
August 2017 — I file to run for office; the Florida Senate, no less, so we’d have another voice of reason, ethics, and guardianship over our environment and people.
- As a retired Marine judge advocate and former chapter leader of an organization fighting corruption, my campaign financing policy was laid out clearly (here) as a beacon for those looking for “clean candidates.” In true grassroots fashion, I placed my faith and the success of my campaign in the hands of the people and their desire for change.
- This “choice” assured that I stayed off the radar of the political industry which proudly equated wealth resources as the primary (if not only) indicator of ability to win. I was fine with that presumption and focused on the mission of connecting with the constituents.
September 2018 — Soon after primaries, Change Research conducted a poll (without my knowledge actually) and returned with surprising results; despite my politically presumed “lost cause” status, I was in the lead by a couple/few points. I started to receive calls and attention after that.
September 28, 2018 — My opponent, Senator Dorothy Hukill (R/Incumbent) announces that she is withdrawing from the race, entering hospice care due to an aggressive reemergence of cervical cancer. Truly heartbreaking news (my response).
October 1, 2018 — Senator Hukill sadly passes. My campaign responded and stood down three days out of genuine respect for her, her life of public service, and the loved ones she left behind.
October 11, 2018 — The Republican Party of Florida announces their replacement, Tom Wright, a wealthy businessman from Minnesota.
October 12, 2018 — I welcome Tom to the race and, same day, start seeing the attack ads against me on TV, followed soon by multiple attack mailers...which brings us up to today!
If the replacement had any experience whatsoever in leadership or public service anywhere, it would be one thing; but he has no known experience, no platform, no knowledge of the District or its diverse issues, no plans or solutions for our challenges…He apparently brings nothing but a self-funded campaign, which is why I made the observation that it was a business decision.
This is also why I believe this is the making of a political showdown for the soul of Florida.
A grassroots candidate with full faith and trust in the People she plans to serve…
vs.
With the high stakes and stark difference of funding resources, it is not a far cry from the epic story of David and Goliath.
Luckily, I am no stranger to facing such challenges, as it seems to be the story of my life.
It is not me or my pride that is at stake, however. It isn’t about the campaign or, like I said in the beginning, which party has the best ideas.
It is the very idea — or question, really, whether truth can overcome deceit; whether good can actually win over greed. This is a battle between those currently benefiting from a legislation-by-bribery system...and the rest of us who still believe that government should be of, by, and for the People.
Money vs. People
Let’s see how the story turns out, shall we?
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