As the only Democrat among four candidates, he was assured of securing a nomination, and managed to escape the negative campaigning that existed among the three Republicans.
Now, he is looking forward to continuing his campaign in a bid to secure the Senate seat.
Casimir faces Republican nominee E. Eugene Yaw in the November election. The seat becomes open at the end of this year with the retirement of state Sen. Roger A. Madigan, R-Towanda.
“I think I’m the person most clearly intent on making changes to the status quo,” he said. “I guess my next step will involve meeting people in the 23rd District, meeting people in Harrisburg and other parts of the state, and forging alliances with people outside the area.”
Casimir, a Lewisburg acupuncturist and borough councilman, said there is a real need for change in public policy, but making it happen won’t be easy.
“These aren’t simple things. It will involve smart people,” he said.
Casimir said that thus far, he has learned a lot during his campaign and has met a lot of people.
An encouraging sign, he said, is that many people seem to agree with him on matters such as the disgust with negative campaigning, particularly in the Senate race.
“People are fed up. The manner in which people conducted themselves and how the ends justified the means,’’ he said. “There was obviously some friction in that race and people are tired of it.”
He said he found his own campaigning fascinating and fun and looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.
“I campaigned just about as hard as I could. I didn’t focus on fund-raising as much as I will later in the race,” he said. “In this next stage, I will be worried about establishing policy positions and getting my message out.”
He called Yaw a formidable opponent.
“I know Mr. Yaw is going to be well financed. I know he is well thought of throughout Lycoming County. I am going to try and be as smart as I can be. I will look at places where we differ. I think he’s a decent man and a public servant, but I think I would be a better senator. I will be aggressive in pointing out differences.”
He said he hopes to take part in any candidate forums to talk about issues affecting the 23rd District.
“It’s really heartening how many people are taking an interest in various political races right now,” he concluded.
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CASIMIR
