Seeing others in the LGBTQ+ community demonstrate acts of courage by coming out, being themselves, and being public about who they are and who they love — I came to realize that I could do both. I could run for office and be honest about who I am. And that’s exactly what I did.

When I became the first openly gay Senator in our nation's history, I understood that I needed to use this extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. From lowering prescription drug prices to protecting same-sex marriage through the Respect for Marriage Act, I’ve worked hard every day since to do just that.

That's why I ran for office in the first place — not to make history, but to make a difference. And folks like you supported me because you wanted to make a difference, too. Now, I'm asking you again:

Will you help me continue to make a difference by splitting a donation between my reelection campaign and Tim Kaine today? I’m gearing up for my most competitive race yet, and I would love to have your support.

Despite the incredible progress we’ve made in the fight for equality, we’re still facing constant attacks on our freedoms.

Last year, when the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Justice Clarence Thomas called for Obergefell v. Hodges — the case that established nationwide marriage equality — to be “reconsidered.”

And just last month, the Supreme Court’s right-wing majority ruled that businesses can discriminate against LGBTQ+ Americans.

It’s going to take all of us to counter these right-wing attacks so that everyone in the LGBTQ+ community knows they belong — and that kindness and inclusion, not hatred and division, are American values.

I promise to keep up the fight as long as I can, and I’m hoping you’ll support this important work by splitting a donation between my reelection campaign and Tim Kaine today.