John - every once in a while, we have to look each other in the eye and be honest about the reality of the situation.
We paint the best possible narrative because that energy keeps us going. However, we can't ignore the elephant in the room: the longer I stare at the 2024 Senate map, the more worried I become.
Our top three pick-up opportunities for our side are Rick Scott (FL,) Ted Cruz (TX,) and Josh Hawley (MO.) We must also defend John Tester in (MT) and, yes, Joe Manchin (WV.) Regardless of how many folks feel about Joe Manchin, he is still registered as a Democrat. We saw what happened with Kyrsten Sinema (AZ,) so we have a seat we must win back.
2024 will be the most challenging election season I have ever come across. I have been in this field since 2016. But this cycle is different because losing is not an option for us. The opposition we face wants a very different America than the one we hope to leave for our children. Issues like minimum wage, healthcare, equality and equity, and tackling climate change...Republicans and Democrats view these things very differently.
The good news is Independents side with us on these issues. What determines the election results are who can reach these folks and get them to turn out and vote. Many great organizations do much of the work on the ground for voter turnout. However, in 2024 if we don't talk to folks in rural America (Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike), then we don't stand a chance of winning when it matters most.
When it comes to resources, the GOP will have the upper hand. The team here at No Dem Left Behind and the races we support find ourselves working 3-4 different job functions. It's all hands on deck; for us, this is more than a job. Now is the time that we double down, lay it all on the line, reach everyone, and win.
Pitch in what you can because losing this election is not an option for all of us.
