This email is a little longer than usual, but it would mean a lot if you'd take a few minutes to read it all the way through, friend.

With Republicans taking the House majority in just a few weeks, my third term is going to be my most challenging one yet. But I know I’m up to the task. Here’s how I’m going to continue getting things done.

1. Putting People First, Not Special Interests

Here’s the thing: winning this race for Congress would’ve been a walk in the park if I threw my integrity out the window and sold out to special interests in exchange for a steady stream of cold, hard campaign cash.

But I entered politics to make people’s lives better. That’s why I’ve shut my door to gun manufacturers and mega-polluters, and stood up to big pharmaceutical companies since my very first day in office. I’ll continue to take a stand against anyone who puts people in harm’s way for profit.

Right-wing super PACs spent millions to boost my GOP challenger because of my tough stances. But I’m not interested in shortcuts at the expense of our community and our values, so I rely on supporters like you to power our work.

The right thing to do is not always the easy thing – but with grassroots support on our side, we can get it done.

2. Standing Up to Hate & Extremism

If the midterm results taught us anything, it’s that voters want leaders who will make progress on the issues that matter – not spread right-wing conspiracy theories and hate-fueled bigotry.

Election deniers, climate deniers, anti-abortion extremists, and Trump cronies have absolutely no place in the halls of power, and I’ll continue to call out those who threaten our democracy.

No matter what Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, and the rest of the spineless GOP elites claim, it’s clear that voters care a lot about our democracy, too. Together, we'll rise to the occasion and fight for it.

3. Ignore the Noise, Focus on the Facts

I didn’t flip this seat blue for the first time in half a century by engaging in political power games – I did it by speaking frankly about important issues.

As a scientist, I’m committed to ensuring our federal policymaking is based on the best evidence available so that we can find comprehensive solutions to the climate crisis, gun violence, inequality, and more.

And most importantly, we’re going to keep fighting to defend decency, truth, and integrity in Washington, because we need honest leadership now more than ever.

I will never stop fighting for our district and our values, but I’ll need you with me every step of the way. Will you chip in $15 or whatever you can to help us keep Democrats mobilized and ready for the battles ahead?

Thanks for reading. And an even bigger thanks for your support this election – I wouldn’t be here without you.

– Sean Casten