John,

Our tree canopy isn't just about greenery—it's an essential part of our climate resiliency. We all can remember the 2021 Heat Dome when Washington state experienced record-breaking high temperatures for weeks on end. It was our deadliest weather-related disaster in Washington state history.

It made clear that trees in our cities are no longer nice to have–they are a must have.

Our tree canopy cools our homes, reduces utility costs, and even saves lives from extreme heat. Unfortunately, too many of our communities, especially our low-income communities and communities of color across the state, too often lack adequate tree cover, leading to higher temperatures and greater risk of heat stroke and death.

That's why I set a goal in 2023 for Washington State–the Evergreen State–to become the first state to achieve Tree Equity in every neighborhood. Through our work, we've increased funding and resources to protect and grow greater tree canopy across Washington’s cities and towns. Just this month, I was proud to roll out $8 million in grants from the Department of Natural Resources for 45 projects across the state - including in communities across the Sixth District, from Tacoma to Poulsbo to Port Townsend and around Mason County.

These grants will keep our children safe on their walks to school, our air and water cleaner, our homes a little cooler, and more money in our families' pockets.

The challenges we face, from climate change to rising costs, are daunting, but I believe that if we can work together, we can do anything. I'm running for Congress to bring the same critical problem-solving I've used to create EPIC progress for our state to Congress.

But I can't do it alone. My first FEC fundraising deadline of the year is approaching fast. Will you join me in the race for Washington's 6th Congressional District by contributing $10 or whatever you can afford today?

Grateful for your support,

Hilary Franz