Dear Lucas,
Thank you for all you and the people across the Upper West Side did for my campaign. Obviously, I am disappointed in the results. But the reception I received made it a great experience. Whether you are one of my great friends who stepped up early and gave a donation or held a house party to get us started, or one of my new friends who volunteered or urged their friends to support me, or simply an Upper West Sider who was nice enough to give me encouragement and a smile at an early morning subway stop, it all was important to me and made a difference.
Like for many other women candidates, the decision to "get off the sidelines" and move from being a strong activist and worker to being the candidate was not an easy one. You helped make it a decision I will never regret.
I am proud that we ran a campaign with honesty, creativity and energy. We continued my life's work of pushing forward with an aggressive progressive agenda. We proposed a virtual "blueprint" of fresh approaches to improve our community and our city. And against conventional political strategy, I was out-front and endorsed Bill de Blasio for Mayor because it is important we have a strong progressive as Mayor. I'm excited for Bill's victory and will work to make sure he is elected.
While the campaign is over, the causes and issues go on. My principles and commitment came long before I decided to run, and will continue now that this race is over. I thank you again for all you did and hope you will stay in touch as we push forward on our agenda.
Sincerely,
Debra Cooper