Statement By Frank Anastasi: I Have Decided Not To Run For Election This Year

A statement on by Frank Anastasi:

As reported here first, I picked up a candidate’s package from the City a while back and have been considering running for election to the City Council.

I have decided not to run for election this year. A lot of people whom I admire and respect greatly have encouraged me – many family members, neighbors, friends and relatives, and even a few local elected officials. Their confidence and offers of support have been very flattering and came darn close to pushing me over edge and into candidate territory.

But you can’t run for office because people encourage you to do so. I would love campaigning, and enjoy being on the council even more, if I were to get elected. But running because it would be fun isn’t a good reason, either.

At a National Honor Society induction ceremony I attended recently, a high school junior offered a few thoughts on leadership. He noted that leaders put their own ambitions aside for the higher good. He said leaders put themselves at risk, make personal sacrifices, and often must stand up for unpopular causes.

I found these comments (and others I don’t recall exactly) so meaningful and applicable to my deliberations about running for office. People have told me I am a good leader. Well, I have been a youth sports coach and Cub Scout leader for years here in Rockville. These things have given me an unbelievable sense of satisfaction.

Also, I have led a few, shall we say, citizen initiatives, here in town (anyone remember something about a courthouse?). Rockville is a great place in which to live and work, and I have really enjoyed working with lots of you to make it even better. I do enjoy getting people together and helping them achieve common objectives, and make their lives, our city, and the planet a better place. I do think I would be good at doing that on the Council. Now that’s a great reason to run for elected office.

But right now I have to focus on my family’s financial well being and building my consulting business back up in the wake (let’s hope) of this recession. I know that those of you who have encouraged me to run will understand.

So, I am sorry to disappoint some of you. On the other hand, if you like hearing this news, I am happy to have brightened your day! Whatever, I am sure I’ll be seeing you around town sooner or later. Thanks, and have a great weekend.

Frank Anastasi

Share This!