As I travel the state talking to voters about my historic Senate campaign, I'm always asked the same question, "Why did you decide to run?"

Well, John, here is what I tell them: I'm running to represent California in the U.S. Senate because representation matters in a democracy, and right now, the Senate is absent voices like mine.

Since 1789, there have only been two African American women elected to the Senate – Vice President Kamala Harris and former Senator Carol Moseley Braun. I think it's time we change that. And not only can I bring a perspective to the Senate that's long been ignored, but I have the experience and proven track record to be the effective progressive leader California deserves.

For years, I've been fighting for the most marginalized and vulnerable folks. Whether it's for the LGBTQ+ community, communities of color, women, people with disabilities, seniors or the homeless, I've been able to work across the aisle and get meaningful things done. But there are still so many issues yet to be addressed.

So as our fundamental rights and freedoms come under attack by MAGA extremists across the country, I think the Senate needs my voice and perspective now more than ever. And I know that, in the Senate, I can truly effect change that will make life better for every Californian and everyone who calls our nation home.

But I can't do it alone: We're coming up on our next FEC End-of-Quarter deadline in just a couple of weeks, and after being outspent and outraised last quarter, AND with a self-funding tech executive who just entered the race, we have to post a strong showing, close the massive fundraising gap and pull ahead. 

Please, John, if you're with me in this fight, will you chip in $5 right now to contribute to my campaign for the U.S. Senate and help me reach my End-of-Quarter fundraising goal before it's too late? >>

Thank you for your support. With you on this team, I know we have the grassroots momentum needed to win this race.

– Barbara Lee