Friend,

I'll be honest, I didn't anticipate having to write this email.

Since the Capitol Attack on January 6th, I’ve thought long and hard about leadership. To me, leadership isn’t just a word or some vague concept — it’s the manifestation of our core values and principles being recognized by those around us. And when I look at my colleagues across the aisle, I am reminded of the need to work in a bipartisan spirit. Progress demands it. Still, though, I’ve had a vexing time squaring my guiding principles of honesty, decency, and accountability with some of my colleagues’ attitudes and votes surrounding both the January 6th insurrection and the certification of President Biden’s victory.

For these reasons and for the time being, when it comes to these colleagues, I welcome their co-sponsorship of my legislation, but I simply can't co-lead bills with those who either subscribe to the Big Lie or are January 6th apologists.

Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) is one of those colleagues. He objected to Pennsylvania's electoral votes and considers the results of the 2020 Presidential Election “stolen.”

After I refused to let Rep. Carter co-lead my uncontroversial bill to increase the supply of drugs that aid in combating opioid addiction, he rallied Republican colleagues in a “protest vote” against the bill.

As a result, the bill was temporarily shot down by Republicans with hurt feelings.

Thankfully, we were able to get the bill passed with overwhelming support a week later; the final vote count was 402-23.

Despite its passage, I'm disappointed that the GOP acted in such a petty, partisan manner with lives on the line. They must face consequences for undermining our democracy and attempting a coup.

Friend, as we approach another midterm election, the stakes couldn't be higher. Mitch McConnell has already stated that he is "100 percent focused" on stopping the Biden agenda, which means he has zero interest in serving his constituents or the American people.

The GOP has shown us exactly what they care about: stopping bills that support mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention and screaming about 'cancel culture.'

My team and I ask for your support and generosity because being prepared now means that we can step up and fight back when partisan politics get in the way of positive change.

So, if you're able, please consider contributing any amount to help us reach our $10,000 end-of-month goal: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/maddean

In solidarity and with my sincere thanks,

Mad