A New Way on
Campaign Finance Reform:

We Can Restore Faith in the Political Process

We face a crippling ethics crisis in Illinois. In the face of unchecked corruption, public trust has been squandered and the people’s interests have been ignored. One of the key factors contributing to our scandal-ridden political culture is our nearly complete lack of campaign finance regulation here. In my work as Legislative Director for Citizen Action, I have witnessed too many good pieces of public policy fail in committee or on the floor, due to the influence of campaign cash. Lavish and unregulated campaign spending and financing threaten the democratic process.

One necessary measure is the implementation of caps on campaign contributions. The limits called for within Speaker Madigan’s ethics reform package are not only insufficient, but they would further concentrate power within the hands of a few politicians in Springfield. I support lower contribution limits, which create a more even playing field and dilute the access of special interests.

While contribution limits have proven to be an effective tool in limiting corruption, they work best when paired with a system of public campaign financing. Public financing can help repair faith in government and salvage our sinking democracy.

I will fight to rebuild state government by promoting sweeping political reform, including real campaign contribution limits and an effective system of public campaign financing. By reducing the influence of special interests on the political process, Illinois may finally be able to address systemic problems that have plagued our state for generations.