John, yesterday, Governor Gavin Newsom said he would only appoint a Black woman to the U.S. Senate as a caretaker.

The idea that a Black woman should be appointed only as a caretaker to simply check a box is insulting to countless Black women across this country who have carried the Democratic Party to victory election after election. Black women deserve more than token appointments. If you agree, chip in $5 to my campaign to help me win this Senate race >>

There are currently no Black women serving in the Senate. Since 1789, there have only been two Black woman Senators, who have served a total of 10 years.

The perspective of Black women in the U.S. Senate is sorely needed – and needed for more than a few months. Governor Newsom knows this, which is why he made the pledge in the first place.

A majority of California voters agree: Governor Newsom should appoint someone who is prepared to run for a full Senate term in the 2024 election.

If the Governor intends to keep his promise and appoint a Black woman to the Senate, the people of California deserve the best possible person for that job. Not a token appointment.

This is not about me. I have always said that I am 100% focused on running for and winning the Senate seat, and we are doing it with a people-powered campaign.

Black women deserve more than a participation trophy. We need a seat at the table. That’s why I’m running for Senate.

But John, I can’t get there alone. Because of systemic issues that Black women face, I am being outraised and outspent by my opponents. And if we can’t turn this around, we risk losing the opportunity to send a Black woman to the Senate once again. And not just as a seat warmer.

So please, can I count on you to chip in $5 or more to my campaign so I can become the third Black woman elected to the Senate and build a progressive future for all of us?

Thank you for your help, 

Barbara Lee