1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support immediate coordinated economic action to protect our democratic processes before potential interference with voting rights occurs. Rather than waiting to respond to election interference after it happens, we need proactive measures now. The context is urgent. There are credible concerns about ICE agents potentially being stationed at polling places, which would create an intimidating environment that suppresses voter turnout, particularly among immigrant communities and communities of color. Additionally, there are reports of a $10 billion taxpayer-funded slush fund being established that could be used to manipulate electoral processes. We cannot afford to be reactive when our fundamental right to vote is at stake. A coordinated economic shutdown, similar to general strike actions that have successfully pressured governments throughout history, would demonstrate the economic power of constituents who demand free and fair elections. This is not about partisan politics but about preserving the integrity of our democratic system. When more than half of Americans participate in the workforce and consumer economy, our collective economic action sends an unmistakable message that interference with voting will not be tolerated. I recognize this is an extraordinary measure, but we face extraordinary circumstances. The time to act is before voting rights are compromised, not after. History shows that waiting to respond to democratic backsliding is far less effective than preventing it in the first place. I am asking you to publicly support the right of workers and citizens to engage in coordinated economic action to protect voting rights, and to introduce or co-sponsor legislation that would provide legal protections for participants in such actions. Our democracy depends on elected officials who will stand with constituents when our most fundamental rights are threatened. Will you commit to protecting the right to vote through support of proactive economic action?