Hi John,

We hear time and time again that local elections matter, but I want to share why I believe this so strongly — and why I’ve been with my team on the front lines, organizing tirelessly for races up and down the ballot.

Last year, Tennessee lawmakers pushed a bill that would have banned hanging any flag in classrooms except for national and state flags. This included Pride flags: symbols of love, acceptance, and support for so many LGBTQ+ kids.

That bill passed the Tennessee House but narrowly failed in the State Senate — a terrifyingly close call. If it passed, it would have sent a message to LGBTQ+ students that their existence and identity aren't worthy of recognition in their own schools — and that it must be hidden away.

This is why local elections matter.

They determine not just who sits in office, but what our communities look like — whether our kids feel supported or marginalized and whether our schools are spaces of inclusion or exclusion.

That’s why my team has been working relentlessly to canvas up and down the ballot — to ensure that progressive candidates at every level has the support they need.

We’re not just focused on Congress; we’re committed to ensuring our local and state governments are led by those who believe in justice, inclusion, and equity.

Our work is fueled by supporters like you, John — folks who understand the stakes of our local elections, from city councils to school boards to state legislatures. Can you chip in whatever you can today to help fund our organizing efforts? Every dollar you contribute helps us knock on more doors, reach more voters, and build the kind of communities we all deserve.

I’ll say it again: local elections matter — let’s make sure we show up for them.

With gratitude,

Becca Balint