John,

It’s over. We won!

When we first launched this campaign, we knew we’d be the underdog, taking on an eight-year, machine-backed incumbent -- most people in the establishment didn’t think we’d make it out of the primary.

But we proved them wrong, and just now, we have won the general election.

That’s right: I’ll be representing IL-03 in Congress next year! I’m so honored and humbled.

This victory belongs to you.

In such an uncertain and unprecedented time, you showed up. You volunteered your time, you chipped in donations, and you helped get out the vote. At the times when things were hardest, knowing supporters like you were out there meant the world to me.

From the bottom of my heart: Thank you.

This has been a four-year journey for myself, my family and friends, and this whole team. Four years ago on this very night when I saw a bully win the presidency on a platform of name-calling and hate, I was disgusted. As this presidency began, I knew I had to do something about it. After all, I’ve never been afraid of taking on bullies.

And while we don’t yet know if Donald Trump’s last days in the White House are over, another woman who decided to run in the aftermath of his election is going to Congress to fight back against everything he stands for.

I think that’s pretty remarkable, John. Progress is on the march, and I’m optimistic Washington is going to look a whole lot different come January.

But now, the real work starts, and I can’t wait to see what we can do together over the next two years.

I’ll have more to say later, but one last time: Thank you so much for everything you did to help make tonight possible. I’ll never forget it.

Now, let’s celebrate.

Marie