John, whether it be a gallon of gas or a gallon of milk, it is getting more and more expensive to cover just the essentials.

Prices are skyrocketing right now, but the issue of affordability isn't new: For decades now, far too many American families have struggled to make ends meet and have lived paycheck to paycheck. The American Dream is increasingly out of reach as fewer Americans are able to secure stable jobs, become homeowners, and receive an education without seemingly endless student loan payments.

That's why I released a policy plan to give working families the fair wages, financial security, and opportunities they deserve.

My plan will lower the cost of basic necessities, ensure that the wealthiest Americans pay their fair share, make child care and elder care more affordable, protect our unions, and finally raise the federal minimum wage.

But building support in Washington for bold plans like mine won't be easy – and I can't do it alone. Real change starts from the ground up, with people like you, John. That's why I'm counting on your help to build the public pressure campaign it'll take to make this plan a reality. So please, can you add your name now to become a Citizen Co-sponsor of my Affordability Plan? I need another 382 signatures before 11:59 p.m. tonight to hit our grassroots support threshold.

Thank you so much for standing with me here. Together, I know that we can – and will – win a brighter, kinder future for our kids.

With gratitude,

Trudy