Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008 | Elections are arduous, expensive, and stressful. Anyone who has been courageous enough to put themselves into the arena deserves our thanks, win or lose. Without the spirited back and forth elections bring, we would have no democracy at all.
But when it’s over, it’s time to put aside our differences, and get to work.
Our city is facing enormous financial and infrastructure deficits at the same time we are heading into a historic downturn. Very difficult decisions lie ahead.
I urge those who worked in the elections, on all sides, to come together to advance solutions to these challenges. Please don’t allow election season animosity to carry over into governance. It’s important we work out our future together in a spirit of caring for our mutual long-term benefit.
In particular, I would like to congratulate and extend my support and friendship to Todd Gloria, my new City Council member. Now that the votes are all counted, he is going to be representing me on the Council for the next four years. He deserves my help, and he’ll have it. With his energy, intelligence, and amiability, I expect him to be a standout on the new council and make us all proud.
To all those candidates who tried and failed, I know you are feeling miserable today. But you didn’t waste your time and work for nothing. I extend my hearty thanks to all of you. Even in defeat, you are winners. You made democracy work here, and your sacrifices and effort deserve the highest praise. Don’t give up. There’s always a next time.
This was a great election, San Diego. You’ve made me proud.