Friends,
I’m writing today to share some thoughts in the wake of yet another horrific mass shooting, this time in Lewiston, Maine. First, I want to acknowledge how traumatizing these events are, particularly for those of you that have been personally impacted by gun violence. Please guard your own mental health and know when you need to take a step back, turn off the news, put down your phones, and temporarily disengage.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed and exhausted in moments like this. I would be lying if I said that I felt any other way right now. Everytime I find myself in this headspace, I know I need to focus on my why: my own three kids, and every child in this country who deserves to grow up without fear of gun violence, in all its forms. Our children are voiceless, and we must be their voice.

It's why I ran for Congress, and why I didn't just give up after I lost. It's why I started Their Future. Those of you who have been with me since the beginning know that I am not easily deterred. I will not back down from a fight just because it is hard, or because it requires personal sacrifice. Please know that I am more committed than ever to keep fighting for the world our children deserve. If we keep going, I know that together, we will do just that.

Until the kids are alright,
Annie