Happy Father’s Day, John. Celebrations may look a little different this year, but wherever — and however — you are marking the day, I hope it is filled with love. If you are struggling today, my thoughts are with you.
This year, I find myself reflecting on our shared responsibility to strengthen our state for the next generation — as a parent, for Caroline and for Will. When I’m on the campaign trail, I often share this story:
It was an ordinary morning. While rushing to get the kids to school, the news hummed on the TV. All of a sudden, Caroline — who is passionate about animal welfare — was engrossed as journalists reported yet another legislative rollback that would put endangered species at risk. She looked me in the eyes and said: “Dad, what are you going to do about it?!”
To show the next generation that this democracy is theirs, we have to lead by example. It’s why I volunteered for the Army after 9/11 — because repairing the world for my children started with serving our country. And it’s why I’m running for U.S. Senate today.
At the heart of this campaign is a mission to improve life for families — to support generations of folks who call North Carolina home.
Too often, our neighbors are forced to choose between necessities. If we’re going to do right by our children, we need a more equitable economy with jobs that earn a living wage in every community. We need a health care system that is accessible and affordable. Our children should grow up knowing they’ll be able to support their families through hard work and good-paying jobs. It’s that simple.
I know that we can make this our new reality. In Caroline and Will, I see an unwavering commitment to service, to making the world a better place. For them — and for the entire next generation of North Carolinians, who I am lucky enough to meet on the campaign trail — we have to do what we can to move our country forward and deliver the change we seek.
Working together, I know we’ll do just that. Thank you for reading this message. And happy Father’s Day.
— Cal
