In the days since the election, I've been impressed with Democrats across the country who are winning races and surprising political pundits. Reproductive rights and democracy were on the ballot — and the American people came through.

We didn't win everywhere, of course, but the result was much better than we (and the pundits) expected when the election season began.

In Oregon, we elected fantastic women to Congress, Val Hoyle and Andrea Salinas. I'm thrilled that I am no longer the only woman in Oregon's congressional delegation! I'm looking forward to serving with these experienced and hard-working champions.

Unfortunately, Jamie McLeod-Skinner did not win in the extremely close race for Oregon's Fifth Congressional District. Jamie ran a strong campaign, and I thank her for her commitment to improving the lives of Oregonians.

Oregonians elected Tina Kotek as our next governor, despite the massive spending for the other two candidates. I'm thrilled to know that Tina will be there protecting reproductive rights, advocating for affordable housing, and tackling climate change. And she will be joined by Democratic majorities in the Oregon House and Senate.

After the Dobbs decision, we saw large numbers of women register to vote for the first time across the country. And last Tuesday, they made their voices heard loud and clear.

Women overwhelmingly voted for reproductive rights. Vermont, Michigan, and California all voted to protect abortion in their state constitutions. And Kentucky and Montana voted against further abortion restrictions.

Although Democrats successfully defended the majority in the U.S. Senate, control of the House of Representatives is still too close to call. Either way, it looks like the margin will be very thin.

Regardless of what happens, I will continue to be a strong advocate for reproductive freedom, an economy that works for everyone, quality education, and clean energy.

Thank you for standing with me,

Suzanne