When opportunity came knocking, I answered, John.

I've played a lot of baseball around the world and here at home. At 44, I thought my best playing days were behind me. But when the Explorers manager, Steve Montgomery, gave me a call and asked if I could make an emergency start, I relished the opportunity. After all, who would turn down an opportunity to play professional baseball?

You may have heard what happened next.

Since that July evening, I've notched 4 wins for the Explorers and put up some of the best numbers of my career. I can't tell you how much it means to me to be able to play at this level and represent my community out on the mound.

Unfortunately, the world doesn't stop for baseball. (as much as we all wish it would!)

We're in the middle of what is shaping up to be one of the most important elections of our lives. We're fighting to restore reproductive rights, and advocating for affordable housing by engaging in real conversations about the impact of the far-right's decisions on our community.

That's why I need your help. With just 89 days until Election Day, we need to invest in our voter outreach efforts. Will you donate $11 to help us share our vision for Iowa?

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We need to show up, fight, occasionally lose, sometimes win, fight again, and keep working to build the Democratic coalition in rural America. So, it's time to Stand Tall for All, John.

I'm grateful for the unique opportunity I have to give back to Iowa on multiple fronts. While I'm starting for the X's, I'm still fielding constituent calls and advocating for the needs of my neighbors. Because that's what Iowans do.

At the risk of sounding too cliche, I'm reminded of the words Kevin Costner used in "Field of Dreams" when he was asked "Is this heaven?"

"No, it's Iowa." And with the journey I've been on in the last few weeks, those words have never rung truer.

This kind of story is one that's only possible in the beautiful state we call home, and I want to make sure its promise is available to everyone. Donate to my campaign today to help me keep the spirit of Iowa alive and build a Democratic coalition in Iowa.

Stand Tall for All,

J.D.