Dear Friend,

After last night's election, I know many of us are feeling a mix of emotions—disappointment in the outcomes for some issues and candidates we passionately supported.

However, I want to take a moment to remind each of you of the incredible work we have accomplished together and the strength we possess as a community.

While it's easy to focus on the setbacks, let's remember the progress we have made. We have engaged countless citizens, raised awareness about critical issues, and fostered meaningful conversations that will resonate far beyond the election. Our efforts have empowered many to take action and advocate for change, and that is something we can all be proud of.

Good news to share

While we are obviously disappointed that our full slate of endorsed candidates and issues were not successful, we do have wins to celebrate. Every victory represents one more leader who will continue the fight for democracy, individual rights, and reproductive freedoms.

The following candidates we endorsed won their elections last night:

Marcy Kaptur, Congressional District 9 continues her historic service as the longest-serving woman in Congress. Since 1983, she has shown us what principled, bipartisan leadership looks like. Her invaluable experience and proven ability to work across the aisle to deliver results reminds us that effective governance is still possible.

Emilia Sykes Congressional District 13. Since taking Congressional office in 2023, Rep. Emilia Sykes has demonstrated a commitment to environmental causes, protecting and expanding voting rights, and improving water quality and public health within her district. By spending her time in Congress fighting to protect democracy and individual rights, Sykes has garnered the support of her constituents and their enthusiastic re-election. Retaining her seat helps to bring some balance to Ohio’s Congressional delegation.

Congressman Greg Landsman District 1. Congressman Landsman has voted pro-environment and pro-democracy since taking office in 2023. He has joined the voting rights caucus and secured $14.5M for infrastructure projects in Southwest Ohio. He has joined the voting rights caucus and secured $14.5M for infrastructure projects in Southwest Ohio.

Rachel Baker, Ohio House District 27. Rep. Baker is a strong advocate for improving access to quality healthcare, a fierce defender of reproductive rights and supports moving the state toward more renewable energy development.

Karen Brownlee, Ohio House District 28. This clinical social worker and mother of three has built her career defending democracy and reproductive rights, working across party lines to fight voter suppression and gerrymandering.

These victories matter. But even more important is what you've built that can't be measured in votes. Every door knocked, every phone call made, and every conversation shared has contributed to the fabric of our democracy. We have built connections and strengthened our resolve to advocate for the values we hold dear.

This is the real work of democracy. It doesn't end with an election cycle. It continues as we strive for justice, equality, and a brighter future for all Ohioans.

The work ahead may be challenging, but I have no doubt that, united, we will rise to the occasion. 

With hope and determination,

Rachael Belz, Ohio Citizen Action CEO