On July 12, 1984, I announced Geraldine Ferraro as my running mate as I stood on the floor of the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. I’ve said it time and time again but, I truly looked for the best vice president and I found her in Gerry Ferraro.

It was an honor having her stand next to me on that stage and throughout our campaign. I was proud we would have the chance to make history together. And Gerry was ready to make her mark as the first woman Vice President.

Now almost forty years later, we have the opportunity to make history once again. Today Joe Biden announced Kamala Harris as his running mate, and I am overwhelmed by the importance and power of this decision.

This year we have the chance to make history — to elect our first woman Vice President, to elect leadership that will serve with integrity, and to get our country back on track.

But we can only do that if we hold strong in Minnesota and re-elect Senator Tina Smith. We know this election will be close. Trump only lost Minnesota by 1.5 points in 2016. Can you chip in $5 today to re-elect Tina and make sure we keep Minnesota blue?

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When I think of some of the proudest moments of my career, I will always remember that historic announcement with Gerry in St. Paul on that hot summer day. And I have no doubt Vice President Biden will reflect fondly on today as well.

But today’s announcement also serves as a stark reminder of how far we still have to go — as a party and as a country. Many of our greatest accomplishments may be behind us, but a lot of our greatest challenges are surely ahead of us.

So, can you please chip in $5 or whatever you can today to re-elect Senator Tina Smith and uphold our proud Democratic legacy in Minnesota? We have no chance at taking back the White House or the Senate if we don’t protect Tina’s vulnerable seat. Please be generous if you can be.