What a journey.

Back in February, I sensed an opportunity: I felt the country and Louisiana were ready for public policy that centered the dignity of every person. I knew that people were tired of the corruption of Washington and policy that benefited the few over the many.

So, the week of qualifying, I scrambled to get everything lined up and left a job that I loved in order to launch a campaign for the U.S. Senate. I did this from a place of a deep calling and a desire to show my kids that corruption, chaos, and cruelty have no place in our public life.

And I kept going, even amidst devastating personal tragedy.

It was difficult to convince others to realize the vision: like clearly seeing a lake in the desert but hearing that it’s only a mirage.

At the same time, Jamie Davis had been traveling the state, building community, and believing in this potential as well.

Early in the primary, I gave Jamie a call from my car late at night after a campaign event. We spoke for quite some time about how we naturally complemented one another and would remain united whatever transpired in the primary.

So, after I fell just short on May 16, I held on to that initial belief in the possibility of flipping this seat. I poured my energy into making Jamie Davis our next Senator and worked with him on a robust policy agenda.

Though we came up just short, we showed the world that what we saw wasn’t a mirage, it was real.

Now that we all see it, it’s time to organize, activate, and strategize.

Right now, my focus is on building stronger, healthier communities. Working to restore Medicaid funding and putting in the effort to continue standing for good government and sound policy.

From the beginning, Marguerite and I said this was about building community and working for good. I look forward to putting in that work, connecting with people, and finding the right place for my skills and energy through collaboration and coordination.

Let’s continue the work. Together.