Travel can be one of the most powerful political acts there is.

Travel has the power to open new perspectives and teach us to celebrate diversity. It shows us that we, as Americans, truly are haves in a have-not world.

There’s so much prosperity in America. The problem is that too many working families aren’t getting a fair share of the wealth we are creating as a nation. The cost of living is going up and up, and too many of our friends are stuck in low-paying jobs that simply can’t support a family.

In my travels, I’ve seen how this gap between rich and poor can ripple through a society. Believe me, it’s not a pretty picture.

That’s why I’m proud we have Democrats fighting for us here in Washington. We have strong leaders who care about extending opportunity to everybody, whether it’s raising the minimum wage, investing in education, or ensuring women have the right to make their own health care choices.

My experiences traveling have shown me that we can’t just sit on the sidelines. These leaders deserve our support, and that’s why I have made a contribution to the Washington State Democratic Party to become a member again this year.

Join me: Chip in $5 for your 2015 Washington State Democratic Party membership.

Through hard work I’ve enjoyed a great deal of success in my business. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the unique opportunity that comes with being an American. For that, I’m thankful.

Now it’s my turn to give back and help make sure all Americans have access to the same opportunities I’ve had.

In Washington, we’ve been on the forefront of progressive policy. We were amongst the first to pass marriage equality, background checks, and a $15 minimum wage.

So I’m disappointed that we have the most unfair tax system in the country. In Washington, the poorer you are, the more taxes you pay as a percent of your income toward education, transportation, and all the services and infrastructure we share.

That’s just wrong.

I’ve spent a lot of time overseas. That’s probably one reason why I love our country so much. I’ve seen a lot of beautiful places. And that’s probably why I love our state so much. I’ve seen what happens in other countries when the gap between rich and poor gets out of hand. And I’ve learned that, even if you’re motivated only by greed, you don’t want to be filthy rich in a land with poor and hopeless people all around.

These are reasons why I feel so strongly that we can do better and that we must do better.

One of the most important steps you can take to address these challenges is supporting the Washington Democratic Party and our elected leaders who are working to make sure everybody has a fair shot.

Will you join me and become a 2015 member of the Washington State Democratic Party?