John, I'll be announcing my candidacy for U.S. Senate very soon – but first, I'd like to share this with you: 

The Washington Post just reported that I'm at a serious fundraising disadvantage compared to others who have declared their candidacy for U.S. Senate in California.

I'll be blunt: While this will not be an easy campaign, I'm no stranger to a tough fight. But I can't win this race and become the only Black woman in the Senate without the support of this grassroots team. That's why I'm personally reaching out to you today, John.

I need to raise another $5,000 before midnight to reach my critical fundraising goal – and I'm counting on you to help me close the gap. Please, will you chip in $5 or more right now to help me build a broad coalition of supporters and a progressive future for all?

Currently, there are no Black women in the Senate, and there have only been two in our almost 250-year history. Our voices are sorely missed, and my lived experience as a Black woman making true progressive change for Californians will give a voice to those who are currently voiceless.

But the truth is that we've got a long way to go, and the path forward will not be easy. Election experts have confirmed that our race to win a once-in-a-generation Senate seat from California is on track to be the most expensive congressional primary in history. 

That means we need resources to win this race, so I'm counting on folks like you to give what you can when you can to power our campaign forward. That is how we will win and build a progressive future that works for all.

So please, John, if you're with me, will you chip in $5 or more before midnight tonight to join me in this fight? Every dollar you give will go directly to our progressive movement.

Your donation today will make a big difference. Thank you for chipping in.

– Barbara Lee