To: The DC Council
Tell the D.C. Council to Unanimously Support D.C. Fair Elections
Six of 13 D.C. councilmembers just introduced legislation—D.C. Fair Elections—which would elevate the voices of ordinary citizens over wealthy campaign contributors. The seven remaining councilmembers should step forward and co-sponsor this legislation.
Why is this important?
The D.C. Fair Elections bill empowers city residents by providing a match of $5 for every $1 they contribute to qualified candidates who forgo large private donations from special interests in lieu of small contributions of $100 or less. As a result, candidates in Washington, D.C. can focus on their constituents, rather than those of lobbyists and wealthy donors.
The high cost of campaigns keep good candidates from running, and shapes the policy agenda of those who get elected. Demos research shows the mostly white, older donor class is against hugely popular proposals to raise the minimum wage, enact debt-free college, and ensure all eligible citizens have the chance to vote.
Public financing systems—like the one proposed in the D.C. Fair Elections bill—are exactly what’s needed to empower voters and good candidates alike.
The high cost of campaigns keep good candidates from running, and shapes the policy agenda of those who get elected. Demos research shows the mostly white, older donor class is against hugely popular proposals to raise the minimum wage, enact debt-free college, and ensure all eligible citizens have the chance to vote.
Public financing systems—like the one proposed in the D.C. Fair Elections bill—are exactly what’s needed to empower voters and good candidates alike.