I have 15 minutes of free time this morning, friend. It may not sound like much – but I've been working long hours in Congress to pass President Biden's agenda, and a gap in my schedule like this is rare. 

So, as I'm sitting with my husband, Jerry, and drinking my coffee, I'm reflecting on this historic campaign – and I've decided I need to tell you a little bit more about my decision to run for U.S. Senate. 

Back when I was growing up in Jacksonville, I went to segregated schools, washed dishes and worked at McDonald's. But my mom saw something special in me. She'd tell me I was destined for something bigger. 

So, when I thought about 2022 and what our country needed to build back better after a disastrous presidency, I thought about her everlasting words to me: "Never tire, Val." I thought about the hardworking families like mine who deserve a leader that understands their lives, their struggles and their dreams. I thought about our country's need to expand our Democratic Senate majority to protect our democracy. And, in the background of all of this, I heard my mother's voice in my head telling me I could win. 

So, I decided to run. And now, I'm 2 points away from Marco Rubio in a race that can decide Senate control, and the stakes are higher than ever: We have a 50-50 split in the Senate. If we lose just one seat, Mitch McConnell regains Senate control – and three Democratic seats are already rated toss-ups.

It's critical we win in Florida – and this race is tight right now, friend. I'm proud that our movement has an average donation of just $28.45, but building a people-powered movement means it's going to take all hands on deck to compete against the GOP's millions in dark money already pouring into Florida. 

My 15 minutes are almost up, and I have to run to my next call: I hate to ask this, but if you believe in this campaign and want to help me defend our Democratic Senate majority, will you donate $5 today? Here's the best link to contribute: https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/vd_senate-fr-email

All the best,

Val Demings