Yesterday, my family made the difficult decision to demolish my grandparent’s homestead - the engine for so many of our cherished memories. Unfortunately, maintaining its integrity is impossible for a structure that is now 80 years old and has survived many storms. For over 65 years, my grandfather watched presidential debates on a TV pushed against the wall behind me to keep himself informed on the political process. Throughout those six decades, PawPaw saw the world move forward, from the pain of World War II, the evolution of highways, the undeniable entrance to the ballot box, the booms and the recessions, and even the Presidential announcement from a Senator from the south side of Chicago. PawPaw saw progress and our nation's history unfold all on the wall directly behind me. PawPaw has been with the angels for 15 years now, but his drive to witness progress still lives on. Why am I telling you this? Today, our nation faces challenging times with the undressed wounds of division and the persistent attempts from those who seek to move our country backward. Many of you reading this might feel like you vote every single cycle but see that your greatest hopes are often replaced with your greatest fears. I want you to know this: just like throughout PawPaw's life, progress is not a silver bullet that quickly brings an answer; it is a long game that resembles bad-tasting medicine; you have to keep taking it because you understand that you will get better in the long run. Why? It is not the role of ideologues in government to decide our future but instead the will of the people. You and I will change the trajectory of this nation when we take that medicine and convert the dreams of our greatest hopes and translate them into votes to build a better tomorrow. As I stared at the wall for the final time that had witnessed the index of history, I couldn't help but walk away inspired by the opportunity to address this moment upon us. I know in my heart that that was my grandfather's spirit touching me; now, I want to share it with you so we can meet the face of this challenge together 🇺🇸