Kissing 2019 goodbye. And I thought I’d share why I’m even on Twitter because I’ve never been one to tweet. I’m here solely to support and follow along with @PeteButtigieg’s campaign. I wanted to share how I got here... and became #TeamPete
I first heard Pete speak in March when a friend from IN posted an interview. I’ve always loved politics, but 2016 crushed my heart and I didn’t think I’d be interested in following 2020 and potentially seeing the same ole Dems. But then Pete stirred something I thought I’d lost.
I was still skeptical, so I didn’t feel the need to jump in immediately, but if he came on to my feed, I would watch every single video. The whole thing. Not something I was doing anymore. I began to feel excited and hopeful. It was a very good feeling.
On June 1st my mentee visited me from IL and we went to Raygun and there was a shirt that said “Give Pete a Chance” and she told me she thought I should get it. So I did. I wore it that night when we went go-karting and a worker there said “Is that for Mayor Pete?” I said “Yea!” 
I was a bit nervous though, cause I live in a fairly red part of Iowa. He replied, “I love Mayor Pete!” And I said “Me too!” That was major. It had been a long time since I’d had politics spark conversation and camaraderie immediately.
According to ActBlue I made my first contribution EVER to a Presidential campaign, when I contributed to Pete on July 17th. I wish I could tell you the significance of this day, but I legit have no idea why I decided to donate that day. I’m glad I did though.
On Sept 22nd I went to an event; this was the day I knew I’d found my candidate.Hearing him answer the real questions of everyday people in my small community, sealed the deal. I met him and saw firsthand his warmth and genuine nature. He was what I’d been searching for.
On October 1st I committed to caucus for Pete. Wasn’t too sure where the road would take me at this moment. I don’t think I could’ve known. But I was excited again. What?!
October 12 I had a house meeting where I invited friends to come meet with me and learn about Pete. I was SO nervous and outside of my comfort zone. It went better than I ever could’ve imagined! My friends Lizzie and Anthony were excited and asked if they could come to an event.
Oct 16 - Pete came to Ames the day after the Oct Debate. My friend Lizzie decided to commit to caucus. I wasn’t expecting it and I was SO excited. Can you see the joy on my face?!
Oct 25 - I bought two copies of The Shortest Way Home after I heard it as a suggestion to help Pete’s campaign on @GoodGuyPete2020 . I kept one (now signed and beloved) and donated one to my local library (it’s been checked out since! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼)
Nov 1 - I was fortunate to see Pete and every other Democratic Candidate at the LJ. This event confirmed for me that in a very excellent field, Pete more than held his own, and that he was different than anyone else on that stage.
Nov 2-3 - I stayed in Des Moines at a completely strangers house (unlike me, but she’s amazing and we are friends to this day) so I could stay and go to a volunteer summit. See that bracelet Pete is wearing? That’s from a supporter’s son - he got it a while before this date. 😭💙
Nov 4 - Apparently we didn’t get enough. 😬😂 We saw Pete in Algona and brought my babes along! My daughter hugged Pete. He was amazing with her. She made it into the bus tour video. Again, the warmth, the genuine nature. It’s who he is.
Nov 20 - I had a debate watch party. Again. NOT SOMETHING I DO! 😂 But I was happy to, and it was super fun, and I would do it again. Who am I?! 💙💛💙
Nov 26 - Saw Pete in Storm Lake - My fav time I’ve seen him. Amazing questions from the audience and he answered my friend Anthony’s question about teens in rural America with so much empathy and thought. It was amazing. The little lady asked him how he would say the ocean. 💙💛
Since then I’ve volunteered at events, canvassed, talked about Pete to everyone I love, committed to being a Precinct Captain on caucus night, supported him online. I will continue to do everything I can to help Pete get elected.
I’m sharing my story because I’m blessed to freaking live in Iowa and be able to attend so many events and get involved and put my passion for politics done right to good use. I believe so strongly that Pete is the way forward. I could go on and on about my reasons...
But I honestly just wanted to share my story. A real woman, a mom and a wife, who wants to make sure her children are left with a world that is kinder, cleaner, safer and wiser.We only get there with the right leadership. And I think that’s Pete. So here’s to 2020 and HIGH HOPES!
