Friend, when I was young, I thought I would follow in my dad's footsteps and become an entrepreneur.

I worked hard to win scholarships so I could put myself through college. Once I got there, I studied hard and discovered that I had my dad's knack for it, so I thought I might end up working internationally to assist developing nations.

But then, when I was 24, working on my Master's degree, everything changed.

I was in class, just like any other day, when someone came into the classroom. There was a call for me. It was urgent. My heart dropped. I knew immediately that something was very, very wrong. I answered the phone and heard my sister's voice on the other line.

My dad had been shot outside of his home in Ecuador. He didn't make it. I had just talked to him the night before, and now, he was gone forever. In an instant, my entire world shattered.

I packed a bag and left for Ecuador with my sisters that night. It took me a long, long time to move past the initial shock and despair. When I finally was able to start putting the pieces of my life back together, I knew that it would never be the same. 

I was angry at the corrupt system that failed to protect my dad and failed to give us justice. I knew that so many other families were being denied safety and justice every single day. That's why I decided to dedicate my life to giving back to my community here in Florida, fighting for justice, and protecting families.

That path led me to nonprofits across Florida, Congress, and Giffords, where I've helped my friend Gabby Giffords fight for gun safety reforms here in Florida. Now, I'm running for Senate to continue my fight for gun violence prevention, for justice, and for safety for all families. I will never give up this work, but I need to know if you'll have my back. Please, will you respond before midnight tonight to tell me where you stand?

Do You Support Commonsense Gun Reform?

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this email and for sharing your opinion.

With gratitude,

Debbie