Chicago Voters Want Big Money Out of Campaigns

The Voters have spoken. They want big money out of campaigns for good. The following advisory referendum on yesterday’s ballot was overwhelmingly approved:

“Should the City of Chicago or the State of Illinois reduce the influence of special interest money in elections by financing campaigns using small contributions from individuals and a limited amount of public money?”

The Chicago Board of Elections reports that the referendum passed by a whopping 79 percent, a strong endorsement by voters and a message that campaign finance reform may soon become a reality in Chicago. Both Mayoral candidates, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia and Rahm Emanuel, have also voiced their support for this initiative.

This referendum is an important first step toward shifting power from special interests and wealthy donors back to voters. A small donor matching system in Chicago would give voters a stronger voice in their local elections, and level the playing field for candidates by reducing the amount of money needed to run a competitive campaign. This would allow candidates of all resource levels and income brackets to enter the race.

If you would like to know more about small donor matching systems, click here.

The Illinois Campaign for Political Reform has worked hard to bring attention to this issue, and we look forward to working with various stakeholders to craft legislation and give voters the reform they deserve.

Your support is always appreciated. Click Here to Donate to ICPR.