Friend,

I grew up in a working-class family as the granddaughter of a police officer and the daughter of two teachers. When I was a child, my interest in engineering led to a college scholarship to study electrical engineering.

After working for General Motors, I transitioned to running a small business with my husband, Mark, operating four restaurants in our community. I’ve continued to embody the ideals taught to me early in life, by providing new opportunities to our employees through scholarships and mentorship.

Now, after serving my community in the Oregon State Legislature, I am honored to be serving my community in the Congress, as the first Black U.S. Representative from Oregon. In Congress, who I am and where I came from will always be top of mind and why I'll fight to expand educational opportunities, create good-paying jobs, and lower everyday costs. 

We won a tight race by just a few thousand votes, thanks to the belief and strength of this grassroots team. But the work has just begun. 2024 was full of challenges and 2026 will be no different. In order to protect this seat, we will need resources early to fight against Republican extremism in Congress. 

So please – will you chip in $20 or more now to protect this seat and keep fighting for Oregonians in Washington?