John, my name is Colin Allred, and I'm tied with Ted Cruz to become Texas' next Senator. If I win, I would become the first Black Senator from our great state. Before I tell you more, will you chip in whatever you're able to help me defeat Ted Cruz and win this extremely close race? →

John, I know my route to the U.S. Senate will not be your typical one.

I’m the son of a single mother who often worked two jobs to make ends meet. My first “job” was at the local YMCA, where they created a role for me because they knew I had nowhere else to go. I worked my way to earn a full football scholarship to Baylor and eventually made it to the NFL as an undrafted free agent before my journey led me to Congress.

So many people helped me along the way to where I am now – and I am running for Senate to make sure the ladders of opportunity that were available to me are there for all Texas children.

I've always admired Black leaders – like Eddie Bernice Johnson and my hero John Lewis – because they were willing to sacrifice so much to build the America they knew was possible, where everyone has a voice in our democracy. 

But far-right extremists like Ted Cruz are trying to take us backward: They’ve pushed voter suppression laws that make it harder for certain folks to vote and even attempted to overturn an election. They think politicians should pick their voters instead of the other way around.

But I believe our government should reflect the people it represents. 

So, yes. My route to the U.S. Senate may not be your typical one – but I'm proud of that. And if you stand with me, I know we can defeat Ted Cruz and give Texans the leadership we deserve. 

Please: Will you chip in $5 to power my grassroots campaign to defeat Ted Cruz and help me become the first Black Senator from Texas? →

Thanks for being in this fight with me, 

Colin