John, it's official, Sen. Laphonza Butler will not be running for reelection next year. 

First and foremost, I want to thank her for taking on the enormous responsibility of filling an open Senate seat with grace, integrity, and a deep commitment to delivering for the people of California. I look forward to continuing our work together.

In California, we must remain committed to ensuring that our Senate representation is diverse. I decided to run for the Senate earlier this year and I fully intend to win this race in 2024 — because as a Black woman and an experienced legislator, appropriator, and negotiator, I bring a record and a perspective that California needs in the Senate. 

I'm going to explain why that's important, but first, can you chip in $5 to my Senate campaign? >>

For decades, Black women have been the backbone of the Democratic Party. They have used our stories. Our faces. We have played pivotal roles in elections – constantly throwing our support behind this party that we believe in. And we have always fought to make life better for everyone. 

And yet, we still remain severely underrepresented. In fact, since 1789 there have only been three Black women served in the Senate: Vice President Kamala Harris, former Senator Carol Moseley Braun and now Senator Laphonza Butler. Together, they will have served a total of just over 10 years.

But we have the opportunity to change that, John.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank Senator Butler for her continuing service to our country and for representing Californians with the experience and perspective of a Black woman. Now it's our job to ensure that this representation continues.

So if you’re ready to help me win this race and continue my work to build a progressive future for everyone, will you chip in $5 now?

Thank you for your support. 

Barbara Lee