A Heartfelt Mahalo!

Nine months before the general election, in February, 2012, I was concerned about bills moving through the Legislature that attempted to overturn a number of significant land use and zoning laws. I did not think the incumbent Senator was representing the perspective of the majority of people living in this District because she was supporting these bills.
Thanks to some encouragement, I decided to run for State Senate.

I had expected a tough campaign. But honestly, I had not expected it to be as tough as it was.

First there was the legal fight with the Democratic Party regarding whether I could run for office as a new Party member.

Then there was a Primary Election against an incumbent.

Then the General Election against the former incumbent.

I did occur to me along the way that 9 months is the same amount if time it takes to have a baby. It’s a loooong time, as anyone who’s had a baby (or run in a 9-month campaign) can tell you.

I want to thank the many people who supported me and helped me along this race. One of the unexpected pleasures of the campaign was meeting so many different and wonderful people going door-to-door, at campaign events, and who contacted me through the Web site or Facebook. We had lots of interesting conversations on many different topics. Thanks to you, I have a much deeper understanding of this 25th Senate District and the many communities within its borders.

Many thanks are due to my family, especially my husband and daughters, who worked so hard and were steadfast in their support. Also to my key volunteers who went door-to-door on Saturdays with me, who held signs, and who enabled me to reach voters with a lot of direct mail.

I am deeply honored by the faith placed in me by voters. I will work hard to meet your expectations and to faithfully represent this District and the State.

Being one of 76 Legislators is a new job for me. There is a lot for me to learn in order to navigate this system successfully.

I would greatly appreciate it if you stay in touch with me as I do this job. If you feel I’ve made a good decision, a bad decision, or have missed an opportunity, please let me know. It’s important that I stay connected to your thoughts and positions, so that I can represent the District and State well. Don’t hesitate to contact me in person, by phone or email, you can also read my thoughts on and follow important legislation at my Senator Laura Thielen website. You really will be doing me a favor.

Mahalo, and I look forward to working with you.

Laura Thielen
Democrat for State Senate District 25