February, 08 2016, 03:15pm EDT
Bush Hearing Voters' Message on Big Money, But Needs To Do More
Statement by Karen Hobert Flynn, Common Cause Senior Vice President for Strategy and Programs
WASHINGTON
Congratulations to Gov. Jeb Bush for joining the other presidential candidates who're talking about what voters care about most -- restoring balance to our democracy by overturning Citizens United.
It appears the governor has a ways to go on the road to real reform however. His proposal to enhance disclosure requirements for political spending is most welcome. But early reports indicate he would simply re-direct the big money now going to "independent" Super PACs and political non-profit groups to the candidates' campaign committees. Major donors would still be able to buy access to and special influence with candidates and officeholders.
In the six years since the Supreme Court's decision, Americans have been fighting to undo the damage it continues to cause. And in states and localities coast-to-coast, we're winning. While too much of the political media have been focused on who's up and who's down in the polls, we've won victories from Maine to Seattle and have brought this issue to the forefront of American politics. It's no coincidence that President Obama is starting his "Better Politics" tour in Springfield, MA this week. He's heard the voters' message: enough is enough when it comes to big money. And now the candidates to succeed him are getting it too.
We look forward to hearing Gov. Bush and his rivals in both parties tell the voters in detail what they are going to do and when they're going to do it to make sure we preserve a democracy of, by and for the people. Fixing our politics must be the next president's highest priority.
On the web: https://www.commoncause.org/press/bush-hearing-voters-message-on-big-money-but-needs-to-do-more.html
Common Cause is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to upholding the core values of American democracy. We work to create open, honest, and accountable government that serves the public interest; promote equal rights, opportunity, and representation for all; and empower all people to make their voices heard in the political process.
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