John,

To many Americans, Independence Day is a celebration of self-governance. To some, it is a reminder that not all Americans have had the right to self-governance since our country’s inception, and that our rights in recent years feel increasingly at risk. 

Today as we celebrate Independence Day, we reflect on how hard these last years have been, when our self-governance and freedoms feel under attack. In times like this, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, drained, angry, and at a loss for direction or motivation. 

In Pennsylvania, the cradle of our democracy, our history shows us that the possibility for radical change and a more just future does exist.  

This Independence Day, use this opportunity for much-needed rest. I hope that you will feel renewed and once again refreshed — in the face of continued attacks in Harrisburg and elsewhere on our self-governance, on our rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — we can choose hope. I, for one, choose to defend our liberty. 

Our team wishes everyone a fun and safe weekend as we spend time with friends and family! 

Onward,

Ann Marie