Barbara Lee, the progressive Democratic congresswoman from California, has garnered significant endorsements from progressive quarters in her bid for the California Senate seat. Our Revolution, the grassroots organization formed by Bernie Sanders’ supporters, is throwing its weight behind Lee, citing her unwavering commitment to peace and justice as differentiating factors.
Tonight, Our Revolution will officially endorse Barbara Lee, bringing its extensive network of grassroots activists and over 1.1 million California supporters to bolster her campaign, which she describes as “a march for justice for all.” The endorsement event will feature prominent progressive leaders, including former Congressional Progressive Caucus co-chairs Mark Pocan and Keith Ellison, Massachusetts Representative Ayanna Pressley, known for her collaboration with Lee on abortion rights, and California Representative Ro Khanna, one of Lee’s ardent supporters.
Mark Pocan, who speaks highly of Schiff and Porter, endorses Lee because he views her as the most steadfast progressive voice in Congress. Keith Ellison highlights Lee’s 2001 vote against giving the Bush-Cheney administration a blank check for the “war on terror,” her consistent support for economic, social, and racial justice, and her effectiveness on the House Committee on Appropriations. He applauds her integrity and commitment to progressivism.
Barbara Lee
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These endorsements are pivotal for Barbara Lee, who lags behind Schiff and Porter in fundraising. While Schiff reported $30 million in campaign funds, Porter had $10.4 million, and Lee, starting her campaign later, had $1.4 million as of July. Polls show Schiff and Porter with an advantage, but Lee believes that support from Our Revolution can provide a crucial boost, considering the organization’s track record of backing victorious progressive candidates. Lee emphasizes the power of grassroots organizing and its transformative impact on politics.
The outcome of the 2024 California Senate race remains uncertain, but it’s almost certain that a Democratic senator will be elected. The state’s overwhelming support for Joe Biden in 2020 and its roster of Democratic statewide officials underscore this likelihood. However, the debate continues over whether a centrist or a more progressive Democrat will succeed Dianne Feinstein, who has represented the state for over three decades as a centrist and often corporate-friendly Democrat.