December 1, 2019 - Former U.S. Rep. and Retired Adm. Joe Sestak (D-PA) Ends Campaign

Sestak announced his candidacy more than five months ago, on June 22.  Working with a very small staff, he engaged in a tremendous amount of activity, putting a particular focus on Iowa, making many appearances before groups of activists, and presenting some thoughtful ideas.  However, he did not make any of the televised debates.  He and his campaign seemed to be almost completely missing any effort to grow, organize and build support, and he ultimately had scant impact on the race.
_______________________

From: Joe Sestak <info@joesestak.com>
Date: Sun, Dec 1, 2019 at 5:10 PM
Subject: Thank you for this opportunity!
To: Supporters of Joe Sestak

Friend,

I want to thank you for the honor of running for President of the United States of America. It has been an endeavor filled with immeasurable wisdom, passions, humor and insights to, and from, the people of America. I have “lived America” … and will cherish every moment, whether a veteran from a maximum security penitentiary calling to say, “Hey, Joe, the guys have heard you’re running for President, and they want you to know they’re going to organize Philadelphia for you,” or the tears of a transgender youth as she quietly told me she just wants what everybody else wants. I could never pay enough for what I experienced, and the men and women I met.

It’s a marvelous fabric we Americans have woven together throughout the centuries. I know there is a tear in that fabric right now; but it can be repaired by someone who can lead, and therefore unite, all Americans. It’s been done before, beginning with the best, George Washington, as he lay on the ground after battle to sleep in a cloak together with his men even before he was a President who united America.

A moral compass for our great ship of state is the beacon most needed today. And it is for the Captain of State who offers it that all Americans will provide the fair winds and following seas to advance us. That is necessary for us both at home and abroad, to convene the world to advance our policies and commitment to democratic values for our collective good.

Again, thank you for this priceless opportunity as I end our campaign together. Without the privilege of national press, it is unfair to ask others to husband their resolve and to sacrifice resources any longer. I deeply appreciate the support so many of you offered -- whether by volunteering, offering financial contributions or coming to our campaign events. I will miss the opportunities I had in experiencing America in such a wonderful way!  

With my deepest appreciation, please accept my final note of service to you … Joe Sestak