A campaign office is an expensive -- but necessary -- part of any successful campaign. I have to raise $20,000 for mine. That pays for a lot of things -- rent, staff, supplies and utilities. This money directly benefits our mission: to provide jobs, justice, and Medicare for All.

An office helps my campaign tremendously. It gives my volunteers a consistent home, where they can go for supplies, advice, or emotional support. But I'm running for Congress because I believe in helping others too. During my last campaign, my office transformed into a hub for progressives, revolutionaries, and dreamers. We lent a hand and a shoulder to other down-ballot progressive candidates, and came together to talk strategy and policy. We built an oasis around our common purpose.St. Louis is in the heart of America, and the 1st congressional district is as safe a Democratic seat as there is. We haven't elected a Republican here in nearly 70 years. It is our duty to use these safe districts to lead and protect progressives across the nation. If we lead from the heart, the rest of the nation will pay attention and follow.