John,
There’s a critical election happening in Virginia next week.
Democrats have a real chance at winning control of both chambers of the statehouse for the first time in 25 years. This kind of victory wouldn’t just help Virginia pass more progressive policies — it would also send a message to Donald Trump and Republicans that Democrats are fired up and ready to fight for our beliefs.
I got my start in politics serving my community of El Paso as a City Councilman. My time as a Councilman taught me that no matter how high or low you are on the ballot — we all have roles to play when it comes to fighting for a more fair, more just, and more equal progressive agenda. Even before these issues were considered “common” in the Democratic party, my fellow council members and I were fighting to legalize marijuana and provide health benefits to partners of gay city employees.
While I was running for Senate, I was reminded of this truth when we visited 254 counties in Texas and met local leaders all across the state fighting for change in their own communities. They recognized that while it’s important to elect Democrats who are willing to fight for us in D.C. — our local legislators have a special duty to build change from the ground up.
So, before Virginians finish voting next week, we must remember that even though we are at a critical moment in this presidential election, we also need to put resources into electing Democrats everywhere, up and down the ballot.
I hope you will help me in supporting our friends in Virginia.
Beto