1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

The recent special election in Texas State Senate District centered on Tarrant County demonstrates what happens when Democrats invest in grassroots organizing instead of relying solely on expensive media campaigns. Taylor Rehmet, an Air Force veteran, aircraft mechanic, and union president, defeated his Republican opponent by 14 points in a district Donald Trump won by 17 points just 15 months earlier. That represents a 31-point swing in a historically Republican stronghold. Rehmet raised just over $380,000 while facing more than $6 million in Republican spending, including endorsements from Trump, Governor Greg Abbott, and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick. He won by focusing on door knocking and volunteer-led canvassing rather than television ads. The Texas Democratic Party piloted a program targeting older low-propensity Democratic voters by sending Vote by Mail applications and having volunteers call to answer questions and encourage participation. This personal connection approach produced higher than expected turnout. This victory proves that when Democrats run authentic candidates who reflect their communities and prioritize direct voter contact, they can win in districts previously considered unwinnable. Rehmet's background as a blue-collar worker and union leader provided a stark contrast to Republicans who have failed to address high prices, healthcare access problems, and the needs of working families over wealthy interests. I urge you to champion similar grassroots organizing strategies and support programs that facilitate voter participation, particularly Vote by Mail outreach to older and low-propensity voters. The evidence from Tarrant County shows these methods work better than expensive media campaigns. Democrats need to compete everywhere, forcing opponents to defend every seat rather than concentrating resources in a few races. This approach puts constituents first and demonstrates that people power can overcome massive spending advantages when candidates genuinely fight for working families.