John,

March 31 – our first public FEC deadline of this election year – is fast approaching. Our fundraising will be heavily scrutinized by political pundits and those trying to stop our people-powered campaign, and the pressure is on for us to put up a strong number.

To stay on pace, we have to meet our mid-month fundraising goal on Tuesday, but we're currently $6,174 short. Can you chip in $5 today to help us close the gap?

If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:

I'm not taking corporate PAC money because I believe in running a campaign that isn't influenced by special interests. The funding of a campaign should reflect that campaign's principles, and I've never backed down from believing that people -- not special interests or political machines -- should come first in our democracy.

So when we face these big deadlines, we're relying first and foremost on supporters like you to make the difference. If we can meet our goals for grassroots donations, it will go a long way toward showing our viability in advance of a tough primary. But if we fall short, my corporate-backed opponent will have a big leg up in the final stretch before votes are cast.

That's why I need your help. Please pitch in $5 before Tuesday so we can meet our mid-month goal.

Thank you so much,

Marie