Friends:

I have some important news about our community and our future.  I filed my paperwork with the Federal Elections Commission to run for Congress in Florida’s Fourth District.  I am officially a Democratic candidate for Congress. 

After spending months researching the pros and cons of entering the race – I concluded the need for change overshadowed personal concerns.  I feel our country is headed in the wrong direction.  The incumbent is a good guy but we need to distinguish “good guy” from “good results”.  The worsening economy, rising fuel and healthcare costs as well as the unfocused war against terrorism are evidence that we need better results. 

As I look around the district, I see so many small places which individuals have made special.  These special little shops, schools, gardens, farms and homes are part of what attracts so many to North Florida.  They also remind me that America is not made strong in an ivory tower; she is made strong right here – by each of us.  I am confident our fellow voters realize it is time to change our representation in Congress.  In doing so, we can endeavor to form a more kind, just, and peaceful America.

As children we learned Americans don’t torture, we don’t hate, we don’t run and, we don’t hide…we lead.  Like Lady Liberty we hold a torch to light the way.  Our history includes times when we’ve stumbled, but everyday we labored to live up to our ideals rather than succumb to our fears.  I am not walking away from this fight.  The stakes are too high.

In my candidacy, I am committed to these principles. But, to win, it takes more than an individual commitment – it requires the help and support of people who care about the future of America. You can help in many ways – you can volunteer, make a financial contribution, tell your friends and neighbors about our campaign; but most importantly, visit the polls this November and vote for Jay McGovern as your representative to the U.S. Congress.


Respectfully,

Jay