Friends,

I won't say too much this morning, other than express my deep gratitude for your support.  I could never begin to thank the long list of people who stood by me. 

Politics is no different than life; there are winners and losers and I knew from the beginning that the cards were stacked against me.  Of course, I thought I could win this race, but the people of District 55 spoke loud and clear and I was the choice of only 2 out of every 10 voters. So, I need to stand up, dust myself off, and march on refusing to compromise my conservative values. I am happy that I stood on principal and never relented. I am proud that such an array of great conservative leaders and organizations stood by my side lending me their endorsements, and even financial support in the case of Empower Texans PAC. I would not have changed a thing in terms of my conduct or the expression of my conservative values.  I take some solace in knowing that I interjected some very important ideas and solutions into the race that the other candidates often embraced.  It is not easy time for true conservative candidates in this nation, but that does not mean that we throw in the towel.  We need to continue to fight for the truth- for what is right, regardless of the obstacles we meet. 

Although we differ on some issues, I have thrown my enthusiastic support behind Ralph Sheffield, and I plead with you to do the same.  We certainly agree on much more than we disagree.  Ralph has always shown me the deepest respect and demonstrated that he has important core beliefs that will not waver to the pressures in Austin.  He is a good man, and we need him to win this race, as the alternative would be deleterious to District 55.  I will do what it takes to accomplish that goal and know Ralph will listen to my concerns as well as the concerns of all of his constituents.  He is in this race to do good for District 55 and to serve the public- not merely to make a name for himself.  Ralph Sheffield will unquestionably serve us with honor and distinction.

I have made a great number of life-long friends along this journey and do not want to lose them! I will write many of you individually very soon, but will require a short time to recharge my batteries.  But please, continue to write/call me from time to time.  It was a great ride, and I am truly sorry that it had to end so soon.  Godspeed, my friends.

Mike Pearce