Not the End, Just the Beginning: Our Fight for True Representation Continues

422 days ago, I announced my candidacy for the Democratic nomination for State Representative of the 84th district. I knew from the outset that this campaign wouldn’t be easy. I knew the opposition would come from those who focus on what divides us, rather than what unites us, and I knew those attacks would be vicious—and they certainly didn’t disappoint. But more importantly, I knew I would have strong, determined, and dedicated people standing by my side, fighting with me through every challenge, and let me say—you didn’t disappoint either. 

Throughout this campaign, I made a commitment to my husband and my campaign manager that my goal was to run a campaign all of you could be proud of. A campaign rooted in honesty, integrity, and real solutions for the people of this district. I hope, in your eyes, I succeeded in that mission. 

Over the past year, we have worked tirelessly. We’ve held more events, conducted more interviews—newspaper, television, podcasts—than I can count. And through it all, we kept the focus on what truly matters: fully funding our public schools, reforming housing policies, expanding healthcare access, advocating for inclusive policies that lift up all families, and fighting for pro-union legislation that builds and strengthens our middle class. These are the issues that make a difference, and they are the issues that will continue to matter long after tonight.

Now, I wouldn’t be here without the unwavering support of some very important people. First, my husband Jeremy. He never imagined a future with a wife so deeply involved in politics, but his love and support never wavered. Thank you for being by my side every step of the way. Next, my campaign manager and dear friend, Krissi Braun-Donley. Krissi, you were the heart and soul of this campaign—your energy, your vision, and your passion were what carried us forward. And Heather Schmidt, our organizer extraordinaire, who covered Mercer County with signs, led our “Unity in Pride” fundraiser, and brought so much joy and positivity to this journey. 

There are countless others who deserve recognition: Chair Sophia Rodriguez, Eric Loctefeld, Chair Matthew Guyette, Vice Chair Joy Roseberry, Vice Chair Diana Dulebohn, Secretary Joe Monbeck, Stephanie Redfern-Murdock, Amanda Zibrada, Bonnie Boldman, and many more. Without you, this campaign wouldn’t have been possible. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. 

I entered this race to fight for the people of this district— to cut through the noise of division and focus on the real issues impacting our families and our future. While tonight’s results may indicate that I won’t be doing so as your State Representative, at least not this term, I am proud of everything we’ve achieved together. And let me be clear: I’m not going anywhere. 

The great thing about statehouse races is they come around every two years. So mark your calendars, because next August, I’ll be asking for your signatures again. And for those of you wondering, by then we’ll be well beyond the five-year disclosure period for name changes, so their little tactic won’t work—this year, or the next. 

While tonight’s result isn’t what we had hoped for, this is far from the end. This campaign was about more than one election—it was about launching a movement for change in our region. And that movement doesn’t end here. It moves forward, stronger than ever, with all of you by my side. Together, we’ll keep fighting for the values we believe in and the future we deserve. Tonight, November 5th, closes the chapter on our 2024 campaign, but tomorrow opens a new one as we prepare our 2026 campaign to bring real, honest representation to Columbus.

Thank you for your unwavering support, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you. We’ve just begun.

Onward, together,

Arienne Childrey