John — some people might tell you your vote doesn’t matter at all, or it only matters if you live in a “swing state.” Here’s why they’re wrong.

In this year’s elections, some of the most consequential victories for climate action were decided by the thinnest of margins. We want to highlight five of our endorsed champions who proved that every single vote matters — and we hope you’ll feel as inspired as we do.

1️⃣ In Nebraska, Ashlei Spivey made history. She secured her Senate seat in District 13 by only 150 votes, and will become the first Black woman to serve in the legislature since 2016.

2️⃣ In California, Marcus Bush’s victory was razor-thin. By just 254 votes, he won his seat on the National City Council in District 4.

3️⃣ In New Mexico, Carrie Hamblen’s re-election in Senate District 38 came down to just 298 votes.

4️⃣ Just 647 votes decided Charlotte Little’s re-election in New Mexico’s House District 68.

5️⃣ In Michigan, Reggie Miller won re-election in House District 31 with 698 votes.

As a bonus, we’d be remiss not to mention Anthony Broadman, who won his Oregon State Senate seat in District 27. While his race wasn’t as close as the others mentioned here, his victory gives the Oregon Senate a Democratic supermajority — effectively putting a stop to Republican walkouts that have long stymied climate legislation. It’s a game-changer for Oregon and a reminder of what’s possible when we organize and elect climate champions.

So, the next time someone tells you voting doesn’t matter, tell them about Ashlei, Marcus, Carrie, Charlotte, Reggie — and Anthony, too. Because if this election taught us anything, it’s that opting out doesn’t cut it when our planet is on the line.

John, thank you for showing up, for believing in change, and for being part of this movement. Together, we’re unstoppable.

With gratitude,

The team at the Jane Fonda Climate PAC