Friends,

Howard Thurman, an African-American early 20th century theologian and philosopher, and contemporary of Martin Luther King, Sr., is quoted as having said:

"Do not ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. For what the world needs is people who have come alive."

My friends, serving others is what makes me come alive. And thanks to you and all of the wonderful, generous, and steadfast support you have provided to me over these past 11 months, I have never felt more alive.

It has been my privilege and sincere honor to have participated in this primary election for the Democratic nomination to unseat Phil English in Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District. While we were not victorious, I am proud of the campaign we ran, the issues we ran on, and the positions we advanced on behalf of working families in Western Pennsylvania and across our nation. We need new leadership in Washington that cares about making sure regular folks get a fair shake. We need to fight for policies and a new direction that will restore our middle class, refresh the American Dream, and renew a healthy economic, social, and environmental legacy for our children.

I have pledged to help our democratic nominee, Kathy Dahlkemper, to defeat Phil English. We must come together as Democrats and unite behind her as the stakes are too great to allow Mr. English to continue his hold on to this seat.

Again, my family and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kind support. For my part, I will continue to be active and involved, as service to others truly is the greatest gift a person can give or receive. And I remain ready and committed to providing a leadership role to help our families and communities. Together we will set America back on a healthy path.