I am immensely grateful and humbled by the tremendous support I received in this election. I know voters do not choose who to vote for lightly, and I am honoured by the trust hundreds of residents of Wards 1 and 5 demonstrated by casting their ballot for me.

I want to take a moment to thank my family, friends, and volunteers. My campaign was a small one, and every single minute of help, every dollar of donation, made the work that much easier. For many people in my circle, this was their first time doing anything political, and I deeply appreciate them taking the plunge and helping me on this project.

I want to also thank the people of Brampton. I met so many different people during the campaign and everyone was polite and considerate. Moreover, so many voters I met were ready with questions and concerns, prepared to make sure I deserved their support and the interests of the community were defended. I loved every conversation I had with voters, and want to thank those who took the time to talk, in person or online.

I want to thank all the candidates who ran across the city for doing their part in the democratic process. I would like to especially acknowledge Stacey Ann Brooks, Omprakash Kapil, and Tracy Pepe for participating in events and debates for the voters of Wards 1 and 5. Running against them made me a better candidate, and the public was well-served by their thoughtful campaigns. Congratulations to Rowena Santos on her re-election.

Thank you to the media organizations and community groups who reached out to the campaign. Civic organizations and the press are vital for the health of our local democracy. I greatly enjoyed speaking with journalists, activists, and community leaders and being held accountable and speaking to their interests, concerns, and questions.

I ran because I wanted to give voice to an alternative vision for Brampton - a progressive, urban agenda that put people first. I heard from voters that they were so pleased to have an alternative and saw in them the same frustration that motivated me to run; frustration with the same old policies and priorities. It was the ideas that mattered most, not me. My small campaign was able to overperform because Bramptonians want a fairer, more just city that cares about people. I am proud I could represent these ideas and policies, and a better way to do politics in my hometown.

I am not sure what comes next. For now, I am off to put away lawn signs and go back to my regular job, but I am not done fighting for a better Brampton.

With heartfelt thanks,

Steven