John —

The passage of the Voting Rights Act 58 years ago today declared a recommitment to our American promise of government of, by, and for the people.

Before the VRA, many states worked to prevent Black voters from exercising their political power. So-called “literacy tests” were designed to ensure Black voters would fail. Poll taxes meant that only those who could pay could vote. Intimidation and suppression ran rampant.

The VRA was a critical step forward for equality and justice, but it didn’t end state-sanctioned voter suppression efforts.

In the decades after the VRA, my own dad and his law partners, who had formed North Carolina’s integrated law firm, fought for voting rights for all. They knew that equality of opportunity under the law was the path to progress.

In 1971, their law office was firebombed and destroyed by extremists who were intent on preventing that progress.

After that attack, my dad and his partners never wavered. They taught me that some things are worth fighting for, no matter who is lined up against you.

Here in North Carolina, we’re once again facing a fight for voters’ rights. Extremist Republicans are terrified that they can’t win fair elections, so they’re pushing legislation to hang onto power at our expense.

Not without a fight, John.

When I’m your next governor, our government will be of, by, and for the people. I’ll defend the right of every last North Carolinian to make his or her voice heard at the ballot box, respect the outcome of free and fair elections, and fight for democracy wherever it is threatened.

This is going to be a tough race — pundits are calling it the “most competitive” gubernatorial contest of 2024. But I’m not giving up, because North Carolina is worth fighting for.

I hope you join us.

John, consider making your first $10 donation to support our campaign for governor. Anything you can give will go a long way.

Thank you,

Josh