Today, our young country celebrates its 245th year, but at no time since the Civil War have Americans been as divided as we are now. To think, adhering to our nation’s founding principles of freedom, tolerance, and justice is considered “too political” and “left-wing” by an entire political party in America. For the sake of our democracy and our people, this stance is untenable.

Our country was founded on the rejection of a despot. I invite my Republican colleagues to come out from under the thumb of a deranged, disgraced, doubly-impeached former President and join us in working to make our country a better place.

Undoubtedly, this message will only spark more angst and anger from those who firmly believe the Big Lie and will fight tooth and nail to stop progress here in Virginia. The stakes could not be higher in this year’s election, so I hope you’ll join me as we work towards Democratic victory—ensuring that we keep moving Virginia forward in the progress born from our independence and grown through our history.

Wishing you and yours a happy Independence Day!