John, I know—it’s been a tough week. Much of what I’ve seen coming out of this White House makes me feel worried about the future of our nation.

But this isn’t the time to give up. This is the time to double down—to stand strong for our shared values and democratic principles.

And here’s one big reason to feel hope: all across the country, there are good and committed folks working to move our democracy forward, even if they don’t always make the headlines.

So, with legislative sessions kicking off across the country, I wanted to share some of the good trouble we’ve been getting in to protect and expand voting rights:

• In Maryland, our Common Cause team is pushing for the Maryland Voting Rights Act, a major step forward in protecting voters of color and giving communities the tools to fight back against discriminatory local laws. It also expands language access so that all eligible voters, including those whose first language is not English, can confidently cast their ballot.

• In Massachusetts, our team is working to pass same-day voter registration. This would let people register and vote on the same day, so no one misses their chance to have their voice heard on Election Day.

• In Indiana, Common Cause won a major victory for fair representation in Anderson. After our lawsuit challenged city council districts that hadn’t been updated since the 1980s, the city finally approved a new map meeting constitutional requirements last week.

• Our team at Colorado Common Cause is championing a Voting Rights Act bill that will prohibit unfair local election practices, expand access to multilingual ballots, and protect LGBTQ voters.

• Common Cause Arizona is mobilizing to stop a bill banning Election Day ballot drop-offs. This would take away a vital option for seniors, working families, tribal communities and anyone who can’t stand in long lines on Election Day.

• As part of the Virginia Right to Vote Coalition, Common Cause is working to pass a constitutional amendment to restore voting rights for people who’ve served their time and protect voting rights for people with disabilities. It passed the State Senate this week—now it’s on to the House.

• Common Cause North Carolina is exposing a dangerous scheme to disqualify 60,000 lawful votes and overturn an election. Justice Allison Riggs won her race for the NC Supreme Court, but her opponent wants to disqualify votes—many from young and Black voters—to take her seat. We’re fighting back with a rapid response campaign to protect voters and defend democracy.

• And in Illinois, with the support of our partners at UnlockCivics, Common Cause is going all-in to pass the RACE Act, which restores voting rights for people in prison after their conviction. It’s about making sure everyone, no matter their circumstances, has a voice in our democracy.

John, none of these efforts would be possible without the support of members like you. Democracy works best when everyday people roll up their sleeves and tackle the issues head-on, day in and day out.

Remember, the fight for democracy is bigger than the next 100 days or even the next four years. It’s about building a system that lasts for generations, one where every voice is heard and every vote counts. That’s why Common Cause has been investing in a state-focused strategy for years—because we know that’s where the fight for democracy will be won.

We’ll be sure to keep you updated as we continue to do what we do best: hold power accountable and protect our fundamental rights.

John, I can’t thank you enough for all you do. Because of members like you, I believe the best days of our democracy still lie ahead.

Thanks for being in this fight with us.

In solidarity,

Elena Nunez, Senior Vice President of State Operations
and the team at Common Cause