Hi y'all,

Happy 4th of July! This year I'm looking forward to celebrating our Independence Day by taking part in Fredericksburg's annual 4th of July Parade.

As we enjoy a day full of family, friends, and Texas BBQ, I hope you will join me in taking a moment to reflect on what this important day symbolizes. America's founding promise is life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness -- and great Americans from all walks of life have worked to expand that promise to everyone and make our country truly equal.

I believe deeply in that promise. It's why I felt called to serve my country in the Air Force, why I fought for women's right to serve in ground combat, and why I'm running for Senate.

At a time when so many of us are alarmed by the conduct of our elected representatives and troubled by what we see when we turn on the news, let's remember our American values and commit ourselves to fighting to uphold them for all people.

So today, I'm celebrating America with family, friends, and fellow Texans. And I'm also recommitting myself to fight each day to build on our great country's promise and potential.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

MJ Hegar