When I came out in college, I knew I was interested in a career in public service, but I feared that I would have to face a serious choice between pursuing the field of my dreams or living my authentic life openly.

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.

Thanks to the support of this incredible team, I was elected as the first openly gay Senator in our nation’s history.

But I didn’t run for office to make history — I first ran to make a difference.

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.

Folks like you supported me because you wanted to make a difference, too. We’ve made incredible progress, but we cannot mistake our progress for victory.

Republican-led state legislatures across the country continue to pass harmful legislation, especially targeting the transgender community and LGBTQ+ youth. A Republican Senate majority would do the same at the national level if they take back control this November.

It’s going to take all of us to counter these right-wing attacks. So, as my right-wing opponent and Republicans nationwide threaten to advance an extreme and hateful agenda, I'm humbly asking:

Will you help me defend the Senate from far-right extremists who want to undo our progress? Together, we can stop them and prove that kindness and inclusion, not hatred and division, are true American values.

If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:

Thanks for being with me in this fight.

— Tammy