What does it mean to be an American in 2026? Does it mean that Americans are bullies? That the U.S.A. is the “superior” country? Does the United States represent a country of generational oppression and exploitation?

As we celebrate new beginnings, here’s the reality for this campaign. There are 72 days until the primary on June 16. 72 days until District 4 votes on their candidate for the 2026 Midterm Election. And I am daily reminded that the people are ready for change, but there’s work to do. How much work? Well, there are 14 counties and nearly 800,000 people who live in this District. And here’s what I’m hearing.

While out on the doors, I’ve noticed the primary election isn't on most people's minds. So, although I am out to remind voters to get out on June 16, the message remains the same. Get out to vote on June 16, then get ready again,

Progress that got women closer to equality in the workforce. Yet that progress has not eliminated the gaps in pay, leadership, and representation in the workforce. Ultimately, we must build systems where opportunity is truly equal. This looks like considering improvements to work environments and supporting policies that benefit not only women, but all workers.

Many parents say raising children is unaffordable, especially in today’s economy. Too many families must choose between rent and childcare, pursuing a career or raising their children, and investing in their children or sacrificing elsewhere. These tough decisions are unnecessary and harmful. They are the direct result of failed policy in the United States. We must invest in our children, and that means investing in America’s families.

The American Dream. What a beautiful concept. And I hope you can pursue your American Dream. To achieve the American Dream, however, each American must feel safe in their life, relationships, and everyday encounters. Safety is essential. It is a critical component of our nation’s success, and we must continue to invest in safer communities. And yet, while you read these thoughts, violence against women remains a global public health crisis and human rights violation. 

Great women have shaped the United States. And we owe much of our identity to some of these incredible humans. Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, the multitude of First Ladies, and so many more. And despite these outsized impacts upon our society, our elected leaders are still largely ignorant on the topic of women’s health. It is past time we stop ignoring this topic and begin to actively address it. 

Back in July, we were told this bill would fix everything. This administration repeatedly said it is focused on reducing the cost of health care for Americans. Yet, it has delivered the largest cut to essential health programs, including Medicare, in US history. Critics warned us, but most people didn’t have 1,000+ pages of free time to comb through what was actually in it. I have been revisiting it because, as we moved into 2026, provisions are starting to kick in and parts of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” are no longer theoretical.