Congressional candidate Carl DeMaio thanked his supporters Monday and urged them to “not give up hope on our goal of achieving positive change in our political system.”
DeMaio, who conceded Sunday after counting of absentee and provisional ballots showed him losing to incumbent Rep. Scott Peters, said in an email message to supporters that he remained “committed to advancing reform in government and helping build an inclusive governing majority.
“Our campaign made national headlines for the reform agenda we have achieved in San Diego and the bold reforms we proposed for Congress,” he said. “Thousands of supporters across the country and here in San Diego were excited by our calls that the Republican Party become more inclusive while adopting a positive approach to advancing bold ideas.”
Reflecting on the bitterly fought campaign, with its attack ads and allegations of sexual harassment, he said “the false personal smears we have had to endure during this campaign from our opponents has been very painful for me and my family.
“I ask that you not give up hope on our goal of achieving positive change in our political system,” he said. “For my part, I remain committed to advancing reform in government and helping build an inclusive governing majority.”
DeMaio said he would be taking “some much-needed rest and reflection” before announcing his future plans.
