Getting Money Out of Politics

Strengthen the Federal Election Commission (FEC)

Close Loopholes for Super PACs and Dark Money

• Super PAC Coordination: Limit coordinated activities between candidates and Super PACs, defining a Super PAC as coordinated if run by someone with a personal or professional relationship to the candidate.

• Dark Money: Stop the flow of dark money to nonprofits controlled by elected officials.

Ban Foreign Influence in Elections

• Prohibit Foreign Spending: Ban foreign-owned or foreign-funded companies from spending in U.S. elections.

• Amend FECA: Update the Federal Election Campaign Act to extend foreign spending prohibitions to U.S. corporations with significant foreign influence.

• Require FARA Registration: Mandate that organizations like AIPAC that advocate for foreign interests register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) to ensure transparency about their activities in U.S. elections.

• Regulate Influencer Activity: Require paid social media influencers to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) if they promote foreign interests in U.S. elections.

Regulate Lobbyists

• Ban Lobbyist Contributions: Prohibit registered lobbyists from donating, bundling, or fundraising for candidates to minimize the risk of quid pro quo corruption.

• Application: Apply these regulations to agencies using lobbyists, contractors/subcontractors involved in lobbying, and nonprofits representing corporate interests aimed at influencing government decisions.

Implement Public Campaign Financing

• Voluntary Financing Systems: Establish programs like small-donor matching funds, where contributions from individual donors are matched with public funds (e.g., at a 6-to-1 ratio) to lessen candidates' reliance on large donors.

Lower Contribution Limits

• Reduce Contribution Caps: Lower the maximum amount individuals can contribute to campaigns and political parties.

• Constitutional Amendments: Amend the U.S. Constitution to overturn Supreme Court decisions like Citizens United v. FEC and Buckley v. Valeo.

The influence of money in politics continues to reduce the power of ordinary citizens. To restore democratic integrity, we must create a system that prioritizes people over profit.

Through this campaign, we are building a political framework that honors the fundamental principle of a government for the many, not the money.