I have served in Congress for 30 years and have dedicated my life to making South Carolina, and our country a better and more equitable place for all Americans.

To commemorate my 30 years in office, John, I’m hoping you will chip in $30 to our grassroots movement.

John, it’s hard for some to believe where I am today considering where I got my start.

I grew up in a parsonage in the segregated South. Educational opportunities for Black children were limited -- it was with grit and determination that my mother got my brothers and me into school.

I started getting involved in my community and in our country’s civil rights movement at a young age. At 12, I became president of our local NAACP youth chapter in Sumter. During my time at South Carolina State University, I organized demonstrations against segregated businesses. I was arrested for my efforts. (That’s where I met my late wife, Emily -- in jail!)

It was that activism that eventually inspired me to run for office. 

I became the first Black person to represent South Carolina in nearly a century. Currently, I am our state’s longest-serving member of Congress in office. 

I served as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, chair of the Democratic Caucus, and House Majority Whip, which made me the highest-ranking Black Democrat in Congress at the time. And this term, I’m taking on a new role as Assistant Democratic Leader.

I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished with my Democratic colleagues in Congress. We are steadfast in our efforts to put people over politics and put the American Dream within reach for all Americans -- no matter what their zip code is. 

We have lowered prescription drug costs, created good-paying job opportunities, and gotten broadband access into more households. Child poverty cut in half. Historic investments in our communities.

Our top priority remains the same: to be a voice for communities that have historically been left out of the decision-making process. To help working families get back on their feet. Those are the values I’ve fought for during my time in Congress. 

Grassroot supporters like you will continue to play an important role in our efforts, John. We’re laying the groundwork now to win back the House Majority next year, and your support is essential to making it happen. It will mean so much to me if you contribute $30 or any amount at all.

Thank you,

Jim