Last year today, Facebook reminds me, I had lost FORTY pounds by switching to a Keto lifestyle. I’ve lost another 25 pounds since then for a grand total of SIXTY FIVE pounds. I haven’t had a drink of alcohol in 450 days–I had to look that up because I don’t track this number because I don’t think about it, AT ALL. (Yeah, color me surprised too.) I quit biting my nails after 45 years, and now enjoy bimonthly manicures as a reward. On Sept. 29, 2018, I started journalling daily. I know because the first entry reads: “Diary of my last 37 days of my second Senate race against ‘the lion’.” I lost my race, but I am 100% confident my book is going to be better than his. This brings me to my point… Of all these things, here’s what I am most proud of: I have perfected the art of the humble brag… Nay, I have become an EXPERT HUMBLE BRAGGER, and YOU should too!
Seriously. I have been thinking a lot about how much we choose to get in our own way, and what societal stimuli we choose to follow. As a literature and arts junkie, I am only now realizing that drinking yourself to death, or fucking up your life “‘cos YOLO,” is not aspirational. Why are these people elevated and touted as role models? Reading memoirs of authors documenting their alcoholic slides to death is pretty fucking bleak. Hey, Ernest (or Anthony Bourdain), put down the bottle, it only makes the anxiety worse! I guess we revere them because they’re “not boring,” but know what’s not boring? Setting and meeting goals. Achieving what you want. Being your best self.
Which brings me back to HUMBLE BRAGGING. I want YOU to become an EXPERT too, because regardless of whomever decided “humble bragging” was a bad thing, I am here to reclaim it as a POSITIVE.
Why? Because we should be PROUD of the things we achieve that are meaningful to us and improve our lives, even if it is, “I made my bed” or “Today I brushed my teeth.” (Hey, I’ve struggled with depression, too.) Because life is hard enough without taking away or diminishing our own personal pride–which is a wonderful feeling that we should encourage in each other (without being assholes about it). Because we deserve to love ourselves enough to admit it to others.
This is why I love the concept of “humble bragging.” It’s got just enough yin and yang, just enough balance to keep it real. Go on, now you try it! Let me know in the comments below what you are proud of in your own life, some improvement you have been working on and feel good about–big or small! And… go!
Failure is never easy, especially when you are used to succeeding. I finished high school when I was 16, and law school when I was 21. I was crowned “Miss Mafikeng” in 1982, winning a hairdryer for being the prettiest girl in primary school. I was one of the youngest lawyers sworn into the Supreme Court of South Africa. I won a green card in the DV lottery. I immigrated to America with less than $10,000, two suitcases, and one brand new husband. No jobs, little money, knowing no one.
Our first apartment in San Francisco was a studio apartment in the notorious inner city slum, the Tenderloin. My first non-temp job was at Apple Computer, working as a paralegal while I took the California Bar Exam, which I passed on my first try. I worked my way up to better companies, better positions, better neighborhoods. I went back to school to pursue an MBA. I gave it up. Later, I went back to school and completed my MFA.
Life threw curveballs. My mother had a severe stroke at the age of 40, when I was 16. She survived, albeit a bit lopsided. I lost a lot of paper money on stock options when the Internet bubble burst. My husband’s tech start-up failed. I was laid off with thousands of others. Family members passed away. A friend committed suicide. Miscarriages happened. I was wrongly arrested. I fought the case all the way to the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals. I prevailed. My determination means 13 million people now have the affirmed 1st Amendment right to film police encounters in public.
I have now twice run for New Hampshire Senate in District 20, and lost. Granted, I lost against an Institution, a now 11-term incumbent, an eighty year-old man who has only ever worked for the state, the self-proclaimed “Lion of the Senate.” Back in San Francisco, to encourage excellence at the startup where I worked, we used to say, ‘Go Big or Go Home.’
Well… I’m home.
Losing sucks.
Contemplating my election loss, I recall the shame and frustration I felt as a child when I didn’t get picked for the school choir. I love to sing, but I wasn’t good enough. “What do you mean, ‘No?’” I can see my younger self huffing, unaware then that failure is a part of success, because one thing is certain: If you don’t try, you will never level up.
My number one fear during my campaign was, “What if I do worse than last time?” Even in the face of a mighty New Hampshire Blue Wave, with record-setting new voter registration, and a measurable 10-15% increase in Democratic turnout in my district, my support went up by 2%.
But all that effort, all those yard signs placed, all those rainy, windy afternoons on street corners waving signs, all those meet and greets, all those local TV shows, all those op-eds and essays written, all those Letters to the Editors that appeared from supporters (8:1 in my favor), all those thousands of doors knocked by me and a sea of volunteers, for TWO LOUSY PERCENT? Wasn’t this just a colossal waste of time? Upon reflection, nope.
I stuck to my principles. I told people the truth about the damaging size and scope of the ever-growing, ever-invasive government. I reminded you of the dangers of socialism, which, sadly, do not disappear just because you slap the word “democratic” in front of it. I publicly supported marijuana legalization and educational freedom for all children. I spoke about the neutral beauty and mutual benefits of free markets. I pushed the two Constitutional Amendments, which did pass, at every turn.
The next two years will serve as a reminder to Granite Staters about why limited government, one that lives within its means through low spending and low taxes, one that protects individual rights, is the best way to organize society. When the budget is busted, and your taxes start to rise, and they come for our guns, remember, we could have done better.
Over this past year, I did do other remarkable things: I lost 65 pounds following a Keto lifestyle (low carb, medium protein, high good fats). I quit drinking alcohol. I didn’t waiver on either of these goals, even under boatloads of stress, constantly confronted by pizza-laden tables and open bars at events. I know that in order to advocate the virtues of individual liberty and personal responsibility–from wealth to health–it has to start from the inside out. So I started with what I could control: me.
I encourage you to start with you too. Instead of trying to force everyone to bend to your will, or your idea of the “greater good,” why not simply strive to live your own life according to your values? Donate to the charities you care about. Go help someone who needs it. Take care of you and yours. Save for the future. Figure out how to live a healthy life. Being on Medicaid and smoking cigarettes helps no one, yanno? True freedom comes from living your principles free of government intervention, by setting and meeting your own personal goals, by working to make yourself the best you can be without being told to do it. Do it because you want to, and because you are still free to.
To my husband, Louis Calitz, a special, heartfelt thanks. Every time I freaked out–I wish I’d said this, or maybe if I did this, people would understand the destructive socialist path we are on–he reminded me: Just be yourself, and let the chips fall where they may.
The chips fell, but I stayed true to myself and my message, with a great and wonderful man by my side (and Schmelly Nellie), so I’m OK.
The producer of “Rock, Paper, Hand Grenades,” a local TV show, posted this on social media the day before the election:
“Had the pleasure of meeting this young woman when she came on the show. Have to say…. I’ve always said, ‘If you call yourself a politician, I instantly don’t respect you as much because politicians are just awful’ but I gotta be honest, she had me hook, line and sinker, spoke from the heart and caught my attention. (Not to mention, she’s got some great ideas.)”
This is what gives me hope. I will continue to spread the message of individual liberty, which is literally the recipe for human flourishing, peace, and prosperity. I will continue to fight for the things that make New Hampshire unique and prosperous: Live free or die!
My time will come. In the interim, I’m signing up for singing lessons. Stay tuned for the high notes!
My sincere thanks to the voters of District 20 for their support yesterday. I did not win, but I did get 1.5% more votes than in 2016. My time will come.
Running against "the lion of the senate" was always going to be an uphill slog. I genuinely believed District 20’s voters were ready for someone new and principled, but you get what you vote for.
To my donors, supporters, and volunteers, thank you! I couldn’t have done it without you. From sign waves to lit drops to door knocking to providing moral support, having you by my side made it fun and worthwhile.
A special shout out to the New Hampshire Liberty Alliance, the Get Involved PAC, and Young Americans for Liberty for your support. Glad to see so many candidates you endorsed did well!
Many great liberty friends and colleagues did win. Congratulations! I wish you luck in serving.
Governor Sununu won. I encourage the Republican party to stick to its platform and support policies that embrace "free people, free markets and free enterprise".
I leave you with this quote from Will And Ariel Durant:
“Civilization is a stream with banks. The stream is sometimes filled with blood from people killing, stealing, shouting and doing things historians usually record; while on the banks, unnoticed, people build homes, make love, raise children, sing songs, write poetry and even whittle statues. The story of civilization is the story of what happened on the banks. Historians are pessimists because they ignore the banks of the river.”
Peace out.
Are you tired of all this politics, politics, politics? Can’t wait for Election Day on November 6th to be over? Me too! 🙂
In order for me to win against my opponent, Lou D’Allesandro (80) who has spent the past 20 years in the senate restricting your liberties and raising your taxes, I need YOUR vote!
I’m a unique candidate: I filed for and am the Republican nominee for state Senate in District 20 (Manchester Wards 3, 4, 10, 11 and Goffstown). After a successful primary write-in campaign by Libertarian supporters, I will also appear on the ballot as the Libertarian candidate.
If you are a Republican-leaning independent voter, I ask for your vote on the Republican slate. Start at the top of the ticket with Governor Sununu, and vote all the way down the ballot–local candidates matter much more to your everyday life, so don’t skip us! I am eager to work with Gov. Sununu on his priorities, including educational freedom for all children, regardless of income or zip code.
If you are an independent voter who doesn’t feel comfortable voting Republican, I ask for your vote in the Libertarian column. I am willing to work across the aisle on issues independent voters care about, including marijuana decriminalization/legalization (with a homegrown provision) and healthcare costs which can be brought down through market competition.
To all voters: I will never support a sales or income tax because #LFOD! Our low tax/low spending culture is exactly what makes New Hampshire better than everywhere else, and I will work to protect this advantage!
EIGHT Letters to the Editor have appeared in the Union Leader in support of my candidacy: from small business owners, health care professionals, single mothers, techies, and more. Only one appeared for my opponent.
Hard working taxpayers want a representative who will look after their interests. You want a senator who is not bought and paid for. You want a fresh, independent voice, someone who is highly qualified and an independent thinker. That’s me!
Running against an institution like Lou is a David against Goliath struggle. I’m sure you, like me, have received a gazillion mailers from him. You will only be getting one from me, because this is all I could afford, and like you, I have to live within my means.
To put things in context, compare our most recent campaign finance filings:
Lou D’Allesandro CAMPAIGN FINANCES
Raised: $407,721
Spent: $179,462
Reporting Date: October 31, 2018
Carla Gericke CAMPAIGN FINANCES
Raised: $25,940
Spent: $9,174
Reporting Date: October 31, 2018
Money shouldn’t matter this much when we are trying to elect our local representatives, but it certainly buys a lot of misleading mail.
It’s incredibly hard to get your name out there on a limited budget, so please, tell a friend or family member in Manchester and Goffstown that there is a real choice for a fresh start on Tuesday.
I respectfully ask for YOUR vote on Nov. 6th. It’s time to vote like your rights depend on it (because they do! And Lou didn’t think you worthy of having a say at all!).
I, CARLA GERICKE, promise to serve with integrity, character, and compassion. Let’s get to work on building a better future for us all!
Last week was super busy, and I’m playing catch up on informing you about my race.
First, and most awesomely, my billboard on South Willow went up! 😀
Last Wednesday, I got to hang out with Grover Norquist (pictured) and many other candidates who support the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, which I signed:
"I, CARLA GERICKE, pledge to the taxpayers of the state of NEW HAMPSHIRE, that I will oppose and vote against any and all efforts to increase taxes."
The same day, I attended an informative session regarding the recent US Supreme Court Wayfair decision. In a nutshell, the Wayfair decision turns NH business owners into tax collectors for other states and 12,000 taxing jurisdictions in conflict with our own state sovereignty and no sales/income tax status. As your senator, I will work with Gov. Sununu to make sure we protect our business owners from this atrocious federal overreach.
On Thursday, I attended two sign waves. One on Route 114 at 7AM for Goffstown voters, and one at 5PM in Ward 10. Lo and behold, my opponent drove by. What are the chances!?! It was cold, wet and windy out, but the volunteers who came out, and the waves and honks of encouragement warmed my heart. Thank you!
After the last sign wave, I headed over to St. As in Goffstown to meet with Republican students. I received this email from one:
"I just wanted to reach out and thank you for coming, tell you that I will be out door knocking for you, and to wish you the best of luck with your campaign."
On Saturday morning, I attended the Candidate Meet and Greet at Jupiter Hall organized by Manchester Ink Link (read my op-ed for them here). Sadly, the voter turnout was low, but it did afford an opportunity to speak to other candidates, including Democrats. I was shocked that when I went to say "hi" to my opponent and his wife, he decided to give me an overly-crushing "power handshake." I couldn’t help thinking, Oh, you’re like that, huh?
On Sunday afternoon, I popped in at the Eddie Edwards campaign HQ to drop off more door hangers and say hello to the volunteers who were phone banking. There was a mix of candidates in the room, and we had an interesting conversation about the role of government with regard to non-violent, first time offenders, and whether restitution rather than incarceration is a better approach, as I believe. I genuinely cannot wait to have these exchanges of ideas at the State House where I can make a real difference!
You know the drill: I ask for your vote on Nov. 6th, and promise to serve with integrity, character and compassion. Onwards!
The following op-ed appeared on Manchester Ink Link:
Did you know there will be two Constitutional amendments on the Nov. 6th ballot? Since political TV ads are spilling over from Massachusetts that may lead to confusion for Granite State voters, here’s a breakdown of the two questions that will appear on your New Hampshire ballot:
Question 1 restores taxpayers’ ability to sue the government: Vote YES on 1
Question 2 protects your private information from government snooping: Vote YES on 2
Question 1 restores taxpayer standing, a 150-year-old NH tradition that was stripped away by the state Supreme Court in 2014. “Yes on 1” means taxpayers can once again sue to hold our local government accountable to the people. My opponent, Lou D’Allesandro (80) was one of only two senators who voted against this taxpayer-friendly remedy. I urge you to vote for me, and to vote “Yes on 1.”
Question 2 protects your private and personal information. It’s one sentence: “An individual’s right to live free from governmental intrusion in private or personal information is natural, essential, and inherent.” D’Allesandro voted against this right to privacy. If, like me, you are concerned about the growing surveillance state, you should vote “Yes on 2.”
Isn’t it empowering to know you have a voice on these important issues? Apparently, my opponent thinks he knows better than you do, and does not think you should have a say at all.
My opponent has also said he won’t support a sales or income tax, yet as far back as 1982, he refused to take the “No New Tax” pledge, and ran on a platform of raising taxes, which he has, indeed, been doing for the past 20 years. I have signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge and will never support a broad-based sales or income tax.
D’Allesandro has had 20 years in the Senate to address issues facing our state. Why would you continue to place trust in him, especially when he voted not to place trust in you by voting against these two commonsense Constitutional amendments?
Remember, in order for a Constitutional amendment to appear on the ballot, it must have ⅔ bipartisan support in both chambers. It also requires that ⅔ of Granite Staters vote YES on Nov. 6th. Show him you know what’s good for you by voting YES on these questions, and by voting for me, Carla Gericke.
I will appear on the Nov. 6th ballot as both the Republican and Libertarian candidate. You can read about my 25 years of real-world experience here, but in short: I’m a former lawyer, writer, non-profit director, and volunteer. I own a home in West Manchester with my husband of 24 years, Louis Calitz, where we live with our rescued dog, Nervous Nellie.
It’s time for a fresh start in District 20. It’s time for a new, independent voice, one who is not beholden to lobbyists and special interests. It’s is also time to elect a senator who will support marijuana legalization for adult use, as 70 percent of Granite Staters want.
I trust YOU to make your own decisions for yourself and your family, and I want to encourage a freedom-friendly climate for you to excel at doing just that. This means a stronger economy and higher wages through less government regulations and red tape, lower taxes through lower spending, and more of your hard earned money left in your own, capable hands to spend as you see fit.
I ask for your vote on Nov. 6th — if you are someone who won’t vote Republican, vote for me as the Libertarian candidate — you might even find this a little exhilarating; already, more choices for you!
I promise to serve with integrity, character, and compassion. Let’s get to work!
I was invited by School Choice for NH to share my views on school choice.
Every child is a unique individual and “one size” does not fit all when it comes to his or her educational path. Some children thrive in government-run schools, others do not. I support school choice and expanding options for parents who know what is best for their child…
The answer lies in freeing the education market to more choice and competition. In Nordic countries, often cited by Democrats as the future “democratic socialist ideal” for America, school choice actually forms the bedrock of their educational system.
School choice is a form of freedom, and improves your child’s chances for success. As your Senator in District 20 (Goffstown and Manchester Ward 3, 4, 10 and 11), unlike my opponent, Lou D’Allesandro, who opposes school choice, I will support legislation that provides more educational choices for your child, which is ultimately good for your kids, good for you, and good for New Hampshire. A vote for me, Carla Gericke, is a vote for a better, brighter future!
You can read the full letter here. I ask for your vote on November 6th. Let’s get to work!
The following op-ed appeared as part of "Granite State Debates" in the print version of today’s Union Leader:
I am the Republican nominee for state Senate in District 20, running against a 20-year incumbent, Lou D’Allesandro (80), the self-declared “Lion of the Senate,” who has seemingly unlimited funds from out-of-state special interests to send countless mailers to every door. This is a David against Goliath struggle. In 2016, when I first ran, I received 40% of the vote. This time, with your support, I can win.
When speaking to voters, I sadly hear: “I’m a lifelong Republican, but I vote for Lou.”
Why? My opponent usually votes Democratic party line, so he votes against your interests. He votes against your gun rights. He votes against free speech. He votes against a balanced budget. He votes for higher healthcare costs and higher taxes. He votes against Gov. Sununu’s priorities like school choice and lower energy costs. He is rated a “Constitutional Threat” by the NH Liberty Alliance and gets an “F” rating from the economic watchdog, Americans for Prosperity. His voting record does not reflect Republican values at all.
This past legislative session, D’Allesandro voted against his constituents on two commonsense Constitutional amendments that will appear on your Nov. 6 ballot, both which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support.
Question 1 restores taxpayer standing, a 150-year-old New Hampshire tradition that was stripped away by the state Supreme Court in 2014.
“Yes on 1” means taxpayers can once again sue to hold our local government accountable to the people. D’Allesandro was one of only two senators who voted against this much needed taxpayer-friendly remedy. I urge you to vote for me, and to vote “Yes on 1.”
Question 2 protects your private and personal information from government snooping. D’Allesandro voted with Democratic senators against your right to privacy. If, like me, you are concerned about the growing surveillance state, you should vote “Yes on 2.”
This election is crucial to the future of our state. We cannot afford to continue to support “a nice guy” who has been stripping away our liberties for 20 years.
My opponent’s high-tax policies will result in a sales and income tax. If this happens, expect everything that makes New Hampshire exceptional to erode, and we will simply become a province of Massachusetts.
As a former lawyer for Silicon Valley high-tech companies, a nonprofit director, writer and volunteer with 25 years’ real-world experience, I have the skills, time, energy, and understanding of limited constitutional government to best represent you in Concord.
There is a lot of frustration in today’s political landscape. The stakes have become too high because government is too big, too involved in every aspect of our lives. President Reagan said: “Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem." I agree, and believe government that governs least, governs best.
My opponent should be judged not on his personality, but on his appalling 20-year voting record. If you are a lifelong Republican, why would you continue to support someone who works against Republican principles, and makes Gov. Sununu’s job harder?
[Carla Gericke is a former lawyer and writer who lives in West Manchester with her husband of 24 years. She is the Republican nominee for N.H. Senate in District 20, which includes Goffstown and Manchester Wards 3, 4, 10 and 11.]