Friend,

My dad used to wake me up at 6 a.m. each morning and say, "Put your shoes on, son. Get ready. There's something for you to do."

He was many things throughout his life: a veteran, a small businessman, and a preacher. He spent his days fixing junk cars that other folks had discarded – and then on Sundays, he preached to folks who felt discarded.

One of my last memories of my dad was calling him the day Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States. I heard the pride and joy in his voice – the ways in which he saw the arc of history bending a little closer toward justice. Two years later, my dad was gone. As the senior pastor at Dr. King's church, I had the sad duty and honor of eulogizing him.

My father taught me so much – from the meaning of hard work to the value of serving others – and I bring these lessons with me wherever I go, including to the U.S. Senate. He's a big reason why I'm in this fight to build a better, brighter future for all people, not just the lucky few.

But keeping up this fight in Washington won't be easy: NPR is calling me one of the most vulnerable Democratic senators up for reelection – in a race that experts say could decide Senate control. The only way I can fight back and defend my critical seat is if folks like you chip in now.

That's why I'm personally asking, friend: Will you give $5 or more right now to help me keep Georgia blue, defend our Senate majority, and build a better future for our country?

A photo of Dad and me. I was so lucky to have him in my life.

Thank you for all of your support, friend.

– Rev. Raphael Warnock