Even if you disagree with our opinions, the reality is that DC has a political vacuum for those of us who don’t identify with either extreme. I’ve seen you suggest that people who hold different views from you and the far left faction in DC somehow aren’t Democrats. Many of us have spent years serving Democratic administrations, staffing campaigns, contributing to the party and fighting for its values. We love this party and want it to do better, for the people it’s supposed to serve. Unfortunately, the city’s far-left movement has alienated people like me. Not because we don’t care about equity or progressive values, but because too often, ideological purity takes precedence over thoughtful debate, practical solutions and whether government actually delivers for people. I’m determined to help build a home for a commonsense faction in DC. One that welcomes disagreement, values good ideas regardless of where they come from and puts our city’s future first. And I mean it when I say this: you’re welcome in that big tent, too.