John, this has been a tumultuous year for democracy. But throughout it all, one message has rung out loud and clear: when we mobilize, We the People have an enormous amount of power.
Together, we ran our biggest midterm Election Protection program to date – training volunteers across the country to make sure every vote counted. Together, we fought back against a disinformation-fueled wave of voter suppression to make sure every eligible American can still participate. And together, we demonstrated that most Americans still believe in a democracy where everyone – no matter our color, income, education, or where we come from – has a voice.
But we can’t afford to rest – our work simply must continue. Already, election deniers that lost their midterms have filed lawsuits to enact barriers to the right to vote – like Kari Lake in Arizona. The same shadowy forces that incited the January 6th attack are already laying the groundwork to contest any elections they lose in 2024, and that means we must be prepared for anything.
In times like these, it falls to each and every one of us to speak up for what’s right as we prepare to pass critical voting rights legislation, stop any attempts to further limit the freedom to vote, and protect every American’s right to be heard in the all-important 2024 presidential elections.
So please, before our deadline tomorrow, make your special Year-End Contribution to help ensure that Common Cause is fully prepared to respond to this moment – and help build the powerful grassroots energy that protecting our democracy will require.
Throughout American history, some of our greatest challenges have been followed by our greatest triumphs. So even though I’m worried about the future of our democracy – and I’m sure you are, too – I’m even more hopeful about what the future will bring if we stand up and work together for what we believe in.
This past year has proven that with you by our side, we can overcome any challenge.
From voter suppression laws like those passed in Georgia and Texas, to blatant lies about our elections, and even attempts by state legislatures to override the will of the voters – we’re facing threats to our democracy’s bedrock principles that would have been unthinkable just five years ago.
BUT… these mean-spirited and greedy actions have also motivated millions – literally millions – of us to speak out like never before. So the most important lesson I’m taking from the year now ending is that the power you and I have to make a difference is real, effective, and here to stay.
I believe we are on the cusp of another great wave of reform. There is a renewed democracy movement growing in America, gaining speed and power at the grassroots level. And you and I are a critical part of it.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to chip in with your support, now is that time. Before December 31st, please make your Year-End Contribution of $3 or more to Common Cause.
Working together, you and I can live up to the challenge of this moment. Together, we will defend our democracy and prevail.
Pam Wilmot, Vice President for State Operations
and the team at Common Cause
