Today, this chapter of our campaign for the 8th Bristol Representative comes to a close.

I want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together, express my heartfelt gratitude, and share my final thoughts. 
Representing the voices and concerns of the 8th Bristol District has been an incredible journey, and I am truly honored by the trust and support so many of you have placed in me.

While we collected petitions to cover the entire district, after reviewing updated totals and investigating voter reports, we decided to narrow the focus of the recount to Westport Precinct E (the old high school). This decision was based on the confirmed machine malfunction and an overwhelming number of requests from voters in that precinct to conduct a recount.

On Wednesday, that recount took place. I want to sincerely thank the Westport Town Clerk and the poll workers who worked diligently to ensure the integrity of the process.

Based on the numbers as they stand, and after careful consideration of concerns that remain outstanding, I believe it is in the best interest of the voters of the 8th Bristol District to end any further pursuit of action to contest the outcome of this election.

Congratulations to Mr. Steven Ouellette, who will be representing the 8th Bristol District in the Statehouse for the next term. It is my sincere hope that he will serve our district well, and I wish him all the best. 
In the span of two months, we went from a successful write-in campaign to coming within 143 votes on election night. That’s a pretty good run, and I am beyond thankful for the tremendous support I received from around the 8th Bristol District.

Our campaign set the agenda for this race, from standing up to the perils of offshore wind, to addressing the unfunded mandates that continue to burden our cities and towns. I am proud to have been able to bring these crucial issues to the forefront, and I fully intend to continue to do so in the future.

Thank you to everyone who voted, and who volunteered your time and resources to make this campaign possible. I am sincerely grateful for each of your efforts, and I look forward to what comes next!

Christopher Thrasher
Westport