Friend --

Whether it’s the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the assassination of Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman, the attempted assassination of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, or any other act of political violence—we cannot, and must not, become numb to this violence.

A democracy cannot function, let alone survive, when disagreements are met with violence. These attacks are a stark reminder of just how fragile our democracy can be.

We must settle differences through passionate debate, open dialogue, and at the ballot box—not bullets.

As Americans, we can disagree on policy and politics passionately, and we should.  But we should all agree: Life is not infinite, and we must value our individual lives and the lives of other individuals.

That truth should bind us together, and it’s what calls us to action now.

Next week, the annual Country First Dash for Democracy kicks off on International Democracy Day, Monday, September 15th. This is our chance to recommit ourselves to strengthening democracy—not just for us, but for the generations who will inherit this country.

Each day next week, we’ll focus on a different pillar of democracy that impacts every American:

• Monday: Democracy and Independent Institutions
• Tuesday: Supporting Ukraine against Russia’s illegal invasion
• Wednesday: Constitutional Checks and Balances
• Thursday: Free and Fair Elections
• Friday: Rejection of Political Extremism

This week of action is not only about defending democracy—it’s about calling on each other’s better angels and proving that America is stronger when we stand together.

Hope is stronger than fear. Courage is stronger than violence. And together, we will show that American Democracy possess that courage.

Adam Kinzinger
https://www.country1st.com/