Dear Friend,

Over the last few weeks, our campaign has really picked up steam, and I am doing everything I can to build on that momentum. One critical way to build a winning campaign is through the generous help of friends and family. In the coming weeks and months, it would mean so much if you would be willing to communicate with me and our campaign, spread the word about my candidacy, and lend a helping hand with your time and/or money.

By now you've probably heard about the victory by Massachusetts Republican Scott Brown, a candidate to fill Ted Kennedy's seat in the U.S. Senate. When nobody believed that a candidate with an R next to his name could win in Massachusetts, Brown and his team dove in head first, relying first on their supporters as valuable volunteers who then brought others into the campaign.

Making personal connections, listening to citizens' concerns and representing your constituents is what being in Congress is all about, and that is the kind of example I want to set with my campaign. I also need to make sure I can cut through the filter and get my message out, which takes financial resources.

Can I count on your help? If you could help me kick off the year with a strong start with a contribution today, I would be most grateful.

If you would like to help as a volunteer, or have a suggestion for my campaign, please respond to eemken@emken2010.com.

I'm not running for Congress for me -- it's for you, for our children, for the 11th district in California, and for the future of our country. I want this to be our victory.

Look forward to working together,



Elizabeth