Friend—would you donate $1 to a political candidate in exchange for a $20 gift card?

Several Republican candidates have been offering $20 gift cards in exchange for $1 donations. Why?

The RNC changed its rules this year to mandate that a campaign needs a certain number of donations to get on the debate stage. Some of these corporate-funded, special-interest-driven candidates, like North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, have been coming up short.

It’s legal, it’s bizarre, and it’s yet another reason why we need to overturn Citizens United and get corporate money out of politics.

My campaign isn’t having that problem.

We’re likely leading the field of now-20 (20!) candidates in the primary for this open seat when it comes to our total number of donors. We have donors in all 50 states, we’re going door-to-door in this district, and the people are making it clear: they want a grassroots, neighborhood-driven progressive elected to office.

The fact that I’m trans, and will be a champion for LGBTQIA+ rights in Congress? That’s just a bonus.

As we approach the end of the quarter, when we have to submit our fundraising numbers, I’m busy canvassing with my team, knocking on doors and collecting signatures to help get on the ballot.

I’m asking for your help—can you pitch in now to show the national Democratic Party where we stand when it comes to electing a people-over-profits representative in the heart of Los Angeles?

I’m fighting for you, but really we’re all fighting together, and I’m grateful to have you in my corner.

In solidarity,

Maebe Pudlo