Friend, 

Memorial Day is dedicated to the remembrance of those who lost their lives in service of our country. For those who fought beside them and survived — like my husband's father — I can't imagine the heartbreaking memories that this holiday brings to the surface and lays bare once more.

As an immigrant who came to the United States in search of a better life, I often think of those who paid the ultimate price to make my American dream a reality.

While there's nothing I can do or say to repay them, they have my unending gratitude.

Our nation's founding principles of democracy, liberty, and justice for all
were forged in the bloodshed of those who fought for them. To see those principles — and the benefits given to the families of the fallen and the veterans who make it out alive — under attack by the very politicians claiming to be paragons of patriotism reminds me why I'm in this race now.

It's because of their courageous sacrifice that I'm here today, able to run for Senate to protect those principles — and to continue their legacy of serving Floridians and all Americans, from here at home.

Today, and always, my thoughts are with the families across the nation who lost loved ones in service of our nation, and the service members who keep their memory alive. Friend, I hope you'll join me and my family in taking a moment today to think of them, too.

Thank you, and enjoy your holiday weekend.

Debbie