Courage To Certify

U.S. House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative,

In less than one hundred days, the House of Representatives will gather to certify the presidential election, a critical step in the peaceful transfer of power to the 47th President of the United States of America. 

These proceedings typically represent the best of American democracy: elected representatives putting aside partisan ambition to affirm the strength of American democracy and ensure that when the American people cast their ballots they can do so knowing they will be counted and their voice respected. 

But, as we learned on January 6, 2021, this day can also be one in which the fragility of our democracy is exposed. A day where, if Congress disregards its patriotic and constitutional duties to the American people, our most fundamental rights and freedoms will be jeopardized once again. 

That’s why we – a coalition of advocacy groups – are calling on every Member of Congress to set aside partisanship and fulfill their oath to defend the Constitution by completing our electoral process. We urge you to denounce any attempt to intimidate, harass, threaten, or incite political violence; reject attempts to spread misinformation about the integrity of the United States’ elections; and agree to accept the ultimate outcome of the election, promptly certify the result, and support the peaceful transfer of power.

The last time some Members of Congress ignored that duty, lives were lost and a violent mob took over the United States Capitol in an attempt to subvert the will of the American people. That must never happen again. Ensuring the peaceful certification of the next presidential election is a critical responsibility. You have the responsibility to uplift our democratic institutions in the face of rising political violence and threats. A failure to do so would not only be a dangerous dereliction of your oath of office but a stain on our democracy.  

The House of Representatives has long served as the “People’s House.” Every four years, it must uphold that long standing reputation by honoring the voices and votes of the American people through the certification process. One hundred days from now, you must do the same. 

Sincerely,