Happy Election Day, Voornaam! No matter where you celebrate tonight -- there are so many of us holding election watch parties across the state -- we are bound together in the spirit of unity and the sweet resolve to "leave it all out on the field." I know this is something that coaches often tell their players before the "big game," but from what I have observed and experienced over the past year, it is truly time to celebrate a job well done. In the closing months of his presidential career, in late October 2016, former President Barack Obama spoke these words: "I'm going to leave it all on the field...As I look back on this year, the one thing I see is that so much of our steady persistent work over the years is paying off for the American people in big, tangible ways." I echo the sentiments of President Obama as it applies to our work in the Democratic Party of Oregon. Thank you to every candidate on the ballot who has stepped up to run for office in service to our state and nation, along with their exceptional staff and volunteers! Thank you to Team DPO, with whom I have the honor to work alongside in their expertise and selflessness, especially when the hours feel long and non-ending! Thank you to every county party chair and vice chair, and their executive committees and faithful volunteers. I've watched your tireless GOTV efforts and fundraising activities in support of local operations and candidates. I know the intensity and the camaraderie as I get to speak at many of these fun-filled fundraising dinners! Thank you to our caucus and congressional leaders who've organized phone banks, text banking and post-carding opportunities. It's been hard to keep up with your notifications when you're working with such commitment and resolve. Very importantly, thank you to our unsung heroes - those among us who don't wear any particular title, but who are with us, day in and day out to lend a word of encouragement and kindness, a smile, and a much needed act of grace. You are true leaders. And finally, thank you to our presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris and our vice presidential nominee Governor Tim Walz! We stand in amazement of who you are, and what you will do for Oregon and the United State of America! Her Closing Statement: A Case for Optimism | 