Victories Across America
On the Elections We Won
Dear readers,
A year ago I published a post titled “What Comes Next”. Drafted in the early hours of the morning following election day, this post was a reflection on what steps that the Democrats would have to take in the aftermath of Trump’s victory in the 2024 election. At the time I identified building people-power as being the key to navigating the next four years and focused on the victories that we had still achieved that night outside of the presidency. These bright spots included Josh Stein’s victory in the North Carolina Governor race and my brother Eugene being elected to the House to represent Virginia’s 7th Congressional District.
A year has passed and our momentum has certainly grown. Seven million of you joined me at last month’s No Kings marches where we sent a clear message to the Trump administration that we will not be intimidated and silenced by troops in the streets. Last night, Americans across the country cast their votes in three elections and I believe the results bode well for the future of the Democratic party and the coming midterms.
Virginia
It brings me great joy to report that Abigail Spanberger will be the next Governor of Virginia. Having met Abigail, I can confidently say that she has what it takes to deliver a brighter future for the state of Virginia. Abigail’s victory comes at a unique time in the state’s history: federal employees are furloughed, ICE has expanded operations across the state, and many Virginians are facing a cost of living crisis. As challenging as these circumstances are, I trust Abigail and her ability to navigate these challenges and work with the General Assembly as the leader that Virginia deserves.
New Jersey
Former Naval officer Mikie Sherrill has been elected governor of the state of New Jersey. This race was in that it was essentially a test run for how the GOP can recreate Trump-ism on a state-scale without Donald. Sherrill’s victory should be seen as a sign for the ability of Democrats to create wide-tent coalitions and the appeal of our message leading into the midterms.
California
Californian voters have successfully adopted Proposition 50, offsetting the egregious congressional redistricting in Texas and setting an example for how to respond to MAGA’s attempts to reshape the electoral map. When implemented, this proposition will undoubtedly assist in protecting the House of Representative from Republican interference in the lead-up to the 2026 midterms.
Last night was a referendum on Trump and MAGA-agenda and so far, the future is looking like a wash for the GOP. As we celebrate these wins we must maintain our momentum and continue to build people-power. Get involved with your local Democratic Party and join me in delivering a blue sweep in 2026!
Anyone else picking up the stench of fear and desperation emanating from the Oval Office? Leavitt is running out of lies. Johnson is running out of time. Trump is running out of whatever coherence he has.
Now, if the Democrats can refrain from indulging in their hitherto all-too-common tendency to shoot themselves in the foot, we may really have reached an American watershed moment.
So many people voted, I hope the results show those who think their vote doesn't count that it most certainly does! Voting is our most sacred right and our power. We must guard it fiercely.