'I am more empowered and energized than ever'

EDITOR'S NOTE: In the last few days, we have seen more than a few letters from defeated candidates thanking their supporters. We published one from Amy McGrath, your state AFL-CIO-endorsed candidate for Congress in the Sixth District. But this one from Martha Emmons of Paducah is one of the most thoughtful and gracious we've read. Emmons was your state AFL-CIO-endorsed candidate in the Third State House District. 

From the bottom of my heart I thank you for your incredible support in my campaign to represent Kentucky's 3rd District in the House of Representatives.

A balance of power in government is needed for oversight and scrutiny, I am sorry I was not able to win to help provide this fairness. However, I am not sorry I ran. 

This has been one of the best experiences of my life, and having your backing means more than I can tell you.  The undertaking was far out of my comfort zone and not in any plan for my life. For you to believe strongly enough in the cause and in my capability to help try to make it a reality warms my soul and 
my entire being. 

Please know your trust has not been wasted. After a week to contemplate, I realize I may be more effective from the outside than in because I am more empowered and energized than ever. Also, thanks to the campaign and your help, I am more educated.

I will not forget the faces and voices of the incredible individuals who have been a part this journey. Every story shared with me has a place in my heart! 

Even more than before, I will stand up for working and struggling people and voice concerns to our legislators as they fund and make plans which impact our lives. 

If you feel called to continue working with me, please do.  We did not win the seat, but together we can move mountains. Imagine what good can be done if newly elected Representative Randy Bridges is held to his statement that he will represent the 6553 people who did not vote for him as equally as the 7484 who did. 

I thank you again for allowing me this amazing opportunity and for being right 
there with me. 

With gratitude and love,

Martha

Martha Emmons