John,

After weeks of demanding Republicans listen to the American people and wait until after the election — Amy Coney Barrett was sworn into the Supreme Court.

This is happening after tens of millions have already cast their votes, while the Supreme Court hears cases that could determine the outcome of this election, and when the Affordable Care Act and protections for those with pre-existing conditions could be terminated.

It’s hypocritical. Republicans have been playing games with what constitutes a fair confirmation process to benefit their own interests. Now, the Supreme Court holds a 6-3 ultra-conservative majority that’s poised to tip the balance of the country to the extreme right for a generation.

Health care for millions could be stripped away in the middle of a pandemic. Hard-fought rights like voting, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and civil rights could come to an end. And any hope of justice for our most vulnerable communities could end up being mere pipe dreams.

This is exactly what far-right Republicans have wanted for decades. And it’s why we can’t stop fighting.

John, the only way to keep Republicans from dragging our nation back to the dark ages is to level the playing field. That is why we must expand the size of the Supreme Court and restore balance to our judicial system. If you’re with me on this then sign my urgent petition to expand the Supreme Court today:

Republicans are terrified of the power we hold when we come together. That is the only reason they are hard-pressed to own the Court, the Senate, and the White House. But this nation belongs to the people and as long as you’re standing with me — they don’t stand a chance.

In solidarity,

— Barbara Lee