Friend, today our country will decide whether we elect leaders who will help us realize our hopes and aspirations, or ones who will exploit chaos and fear. We’ll decide between a candidate who wants to protect our freedoms and create more economic opportunities for workers and families and more pathways to the middle class, or one who will cater to billionaires and extremists; between a candidate who supports public education, healthcare and Social Security, or one whose 2025 blueprint guts them.

I love voting on Election Day. So, early this morning, I cast my vote for Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz. Here’s why.

I also cast my vote in New York for candidates my state federation—New York State United Teachers—has endorsed. Candidates who believe in finding common ground, not creating chaos. Candidates who fight for public education, healthcare and workers’ rights.

I am asking you to join me. Consider the endorsements your union has made. Most importantly, if you haven’t voted yet, please make your plan to vote today. Click here for voting information in your area.

As I have said repeatedly (you are probably sick of it by now), this election is about trust. And it might be a nailbiter; the polls are close. You are the difference-makers. You are trusted members of your communities, so if you can, bring five people to the polls with you so they can make their voices heard too.

Click here to find voting information in your area. Make your plan to vote. And then help five of your friends make their plans to get to the polls today!

Thank you for all that you do. Go vote, and if you come across any problems at the polls, please know that the nonpartisan hotline 1-866-OUR-VOTE is there to help you (or anyone) exercise your constitutional right to vote.

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President

P.S. I’m serious. Go vote as soon as possible, and send a text to five people you know right now telling them to visit vote.org to make a plan to vote today.