Taking Back Democracy Through Campaign Finance Reform
Five years after the Supreme Court’s landmark Citizens United ruling, big-money campaign donors and wealthy special interests have amassed unprecedented political power — and their corrosive influence on our government is growing.
Every election brings new examples of special interests drowning out the voices of ordinary citizens. The 2014 election was no exception: With nearly $4 billion spent, it was the most expensive midterm election in American history. Shadowy Super PACs and dark money groups spent more money than ever before, relying on a handful of mega donors to fill their coffers.
As a result, in only the first few months of the new, Republican-controlled Congress, we’ve seen a litany of bills that do favors for the wealthy and well-connected, but a dearth of legislation that would truly help hard-working families.
No wonder why voters are cynical about the state of American democracy. What goes on in Washington confirms their worst suspicions: that special interests are calling the shots and blocking progress on important issues, like making the economy work for everyday Americans, creating good jobs, protecting consumers and safeguarding the environment.
Despite this grim reality, there is reason for hope. Most people still run for public office for the right reason: a sincere desire to help others and to make a positive difference in their communities. And there are many dedicated, principled leaders in Congress who are frustrated by the outsized role of money in politics and who long to restore Congress’ credibility with the public. Moreover, grassroots support is growing among everyday Americans who want to take back our democracy.
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