This morning, I woke up early, bundled up my 21-month-old son, and walked with him to our local polling place here in Virginia — just like we’ve done for every election since January 2024. That’s six elections so far, between the primaries and the general elections. It’s become a special day for us. We always head out before breakfast to beat the lines, but also to start the day with purpose.
There’s something incredible about watching neighbors from every background line up together, quietly taking part in one of the simplest yet most profound acts of citizenship. No shouting, no fighting — just people choosing the future, one ballot at a time.
As someone who’s seen political conflict take darker turns, I’m always reminded that our system — imperfect as it may be — offers something remarkable: a peaceful way to disagree. Voting is the alternative to violence. It’s how we express our frustrations, our hopes, and our vision for a better country without tearing each other apart.
That’s why I’ll keep bringing my son with me to vote. I want him to grow up knowing that this is what civic responsibility looks like — ordinary people showing up, again and again, to make their voices heard.
So today, I hope you’ll join us. Bring your kids, your friends, or even just yourself. Vote — not because it’s easy, but because it’s the best way we have to move forward together.
