Friend: Last month, I went head-to-head with Marco Rubio on the debate stage – where I countered his lies and fear tactics with real ideas on how to build a better future for Florida.

That's why this update from my finance director this morning was so surprising: Despite a surge in donations after the debate, things are slowing down and I'm still WAY behind on tonight's $500,000 goal – but friend, a generous group of fired-up Democratic donors has offered to TRIPLE-MATCH all contributions to my campaign up to our $500,000 goal.

If I don't make up this shortfall, I'm worried my team will have to make some tough decisions about our budget to mobilize voters and fight back against Rubio's relentless attack ads. 

I knew winning in Florida was never going to be easy – and if I'm going to have a shot, I have to keep pace. I don't like asking for money – but if we're going to retire Rubio and defend our Senate majority, I need grassroots Democrats like you to step up with a $5 donation now, while all donations are being TRIPLE-MATCHED, to help get me back on track to win.

Floridians have already started voting, and I'm being outspent in key areas of Florida, so I MUST keep our TV ads on the air to counter Marco Rubio's lies. TV ads cost me an arm and a leg, especially here in Florida, but they're essential if we want to flip this state blue.

If donations continue to dry up, I simply will not have enough resources to stay on the air. And with just 4 DAYS until Election Day, huge budget cuts will cost us this race and our opportunity to expand our Senate majority. I cannot miss tonight's critical $500,000 goal, friend.

Every dollar I don't raise means fewer and fewer voters I can contact, so I have to ask: Will you please donate $5 (and have it TRIPLED) to help me close my massive fundraising gap before my deadline at midnight tonight?

Thanks for stepping up when it matters most. I really appreciate your support.

– Val Demings