John,

I made a promise to you at the beginning of this campaign that, if I’m going to ask you for a donation, I’d always let you know where your money’s going.

So fair warning, this email ends with a sincere request for you to chip in -- but first, let me tell you why.

Next month, we’re building the ground-game operation that’s going to make sure we get on the ballot.

And, John, I’ll be honest: It’s a lot of work. It will require thousands of signatures to qualify for the ballot. And we’ll need to submit as many as possible to make sure no Chicago Machine shenanigans get in the way.

Right now, our priority is bringing on more organizers and volunteers, and making some not-so-flashy investments in materials like clipboards and pens.

Look, I know I’m up against plenty of groups who will fight to protect the status quo. And unlike my opponent, I’m not taking money from corporate PACs or federal lobbyists.

So in moments like this, I’m counting on people like you.

What we raise from now until the end of this month is going toward efforts to make sure we qualify for the ballot in 2020. So I’m asking you, will you chip in by July 31st to help ensure that we can take on Dan Lipinski in this election?

Thanks, I couldn’t do this without you.

Marie