You have probably received several messages from me in the last few weeks about how to ensure your vote is counted. The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy. But right now, the rules governing our elections are being challenged in courts and changed across the country.

September has been another busy month working on the issues that matter to people across Northwest Washington.

Here are a few highlights from the month:

Supporting Washington's maritime economy: I joined maritime leaders at the Port of Everett for a discussion about funding needs, workforce development, domestic shipbuilding, and supporting maritime jobs across our region.

There are only 40 days until Election Day. Every day leading up to November 3 will have an impact on our values, freedom, and democracy. The issues we care about — affordability, protecting our environment, ensuring economic growth, and addressing public health crises like the opioid epidemic — are all on the ballot.

Do you have a plan to vote in November? The values we take pride in are on the line, and we each need to do our part to ensure that no one can take away these values from us.