John, with all that's going on in our country right now, it's no wonder people are turning off the news and the divisive bickering on social media and retreating inward.

I can tell you that I’ve felt that urge also. It seems so much easier just to tune things out, doesn’t it? Now, more than ever, we’ve got to resist that temptation. We need to tune in and speak up.

What helps me right now is remembering how lucky we are to live in America. While there are brand new reasons to once again debate how big of a role government should have in our lives—a debate that will not end anytime soon—I take heart that we live in a democracy in which that spirited debate can take place. That encourages me today in a powerful way.

I know that you also share my passion for free expression and debating ideas and that's why I'm so proud to have you on this team.

I'm out there every week giving speeches, doing media interviews, hosting my podcast, communicating on social media and using every other tool at my disposal to share my beliefs with as many Americans as I can.

The reason is simple: I want to inspire people to come together and build-up those things that unite us instead of spending time on the things that divide us.

I'm counting on your continued support to ensure that we can keep this important work moving forward.

Believe me when I say that I dislike sending fundraising emails as much as you dislike getting and reading them, but raising support is a necessary part of this effort. I'd be personally grateful for any amount that you're able to give today to help.