This email is longer than usual, but it would mean a lot if you'd take a few minutes to read it all the way through, friend.

It’s been six months since the MAGA majority took over in Congress. Those of us who are working toward a functional, effective government are fighting daily battles with far-right obstructionists and radicals.

I won’t lie — it’s proving challenging to get things done in Washington. But I don’t give up that easily, especially when the stakes are so high. Here’s how I’m planning to tackle this mess:

1. Putting People First, Not Special Interests

My last election could’ve been a walk in the park; all I needed to do was throw my integrity out the window and sell out to special interests in exchange for a steady stream of campaign cash.

But I didn’t get into politics to win elections. I did it to solve problems that impact all of us. That’s why I’ve shut my door to weapons manufacturers and mega-polluters and stood up to Big Pharma since my very first day in office. I’ll continue to take a stand against anyone who puts people in harm’s way for profit.

Right-wing super PACs and MAGA megadonors have spent millions trying to unseat me in the last three elections because of my tough stances. We defeated them with the strength and tenacity of this grassroots coalition, and I have the utmost confidence we’ll do it again in 2024.

2. Standing Up To Hate & Extremism

Americans made it clear in November: They want compassionate, hardworking leaders — not attention-seeking fanatics.

Big Liars, climate-crisis enablers, anti-democratic extremists, and anyone who hangs out with neo-Nazis in their free time have absolutely no place in the halls of power, full stop.

Unlike Kevin McCarthy, I’m not afraid to condemn those who use their offices to instigate hatred and violence. Together, we’ll fight to restore accountability, integrity, and empathy in Washington.

3. Ignore The Noise, Focus On The Facts

As a scientist and entrepreneur, I learned a long time ago to always face things head-on.

I didn’t flip IL-06 blue for the first time in a generation by trotting out tired, vague, poll-tested phrases. I did it by laying out the facts and engaging in the tough, honest conversations that my predecessor avoided.

I’ll always seek evidence-based and results-driven solutions to address the most serious problems we face. And in Washington, I’m fighting to ensure that all our federal policymaking is rooted in fact, not political fantasy.

The obstructive right-wing majority in the House means I’ll need a boost of grassroots strength from this team every step of the way. Will you chip in $15 or whatever you can to help us get Democrats mobilized and ready for the challenges ahead?

Thanks for reading, and an even bigger thanks for your support. I wouldn’t be here without you.

– Sean Casten