MARLBOROUGH – The following was issued from Patrick Hogan, who placed third in the preliminary race for mayor. Hogan had been considering a write-in/sticker campaign.
“It has been a genuine pleasure meeting and engaging with the wonderful people of Marlborough. Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of listening to your thoughts and concerns, and I’ve learned so much from each of you. The deep investment many of you have in the success of our beloved city is truly inspiring.
“I, too, am deeply invested in the prosperity of Marlborough. That’s why I’m making this announcement: I will not be running for mayor through a sticker campaign. At the conclusion of the primary election, the response I received from citywide supporters compelled our team to explore the possibility of a sticker campaign.
“Since that became public knowledge, I have been overwhelmed by calls and messages from people, expressing their concerns about the potential impact of a sticker campaign on the general election. However, I refuse to become a scapegoat. Ultimately, it’s the voters who will decide our next mayor. I firmly believe that nothing I have done, am doing, or will do can alter the outcome in November. Marlborough it’s up to all of you to exercise your right to vote.
“I’ve been asked to influence and encourage my supporters to vote, but I will not ask anyone to cast a vote for a candidate they don’t genuinely support. It’s not my fault if you find the choices unsatisfactory; that responsibility falls on the voters of Marlborough. In fact, I would respectfully request that you do not write my name on your ballot.
“I also want to address some of the controversy surrounding the election. My team and I have dedicated considerable time to investigating the perceived irregularities in the primary election. While we did identify some very questionable behavior, we do not believe it would have altered the election’s outcome. What matters most is the will of the voters. I extend my congratulations to my two opponents for advancing to the general election.
“I want to express my deep gratitude to my wife for her unwavering patience and understanding throughout my campaign. Her self-sacrifice and selflessness cannot be adequately repaid. Campaigning demanded a significant amount of my time, which meant moments missed with my wife and our newborn daughter. To both of you, know that I am recommitting my undivided attention to being the husband and father you expect and deserve.
“I must also thank everyone who turned out to vote, all 4,822 of you. Ultimately, it was the turnout that decided this election. My two opponents successfully rallied their supporters to the polls, and I applaud them for their remarkable efforts. I’m also deeply appreciative of the 1,409 supporters who stood by me at the polls. From the depths of my heart, I thank you.
“Lastly, I extend my gratitude to my campaign team. Though we may not have been a large group, I have never worked with a more dedicated crew. Your sacrifices equaled, if not exceeded, my own. I appreciate your tireless commitment to our shared goal. You ran a local, honest and collaborative campaign. I was honored to work alongside you. I thank you for your tireless efforts.
“Now, I will step aside and watch as Marlborough chooses its new mayor. The future of our city lies in your hands, and it’s your duty to show up and vote. Marlborough, the power to shape our destiny is with you.”
Respectfully Submitted,
Patrick M. Hogan
