Segal Calls for Overhaul of Campaign Financing
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
“Rhode Islanders want to elect a Congressperson who they can trust to be honest and accountable to the voters, and fight against special interests and political corruption, and be funded by big banks and powerful corporations,” Segal said. “That is why I have pledged to refuse to take a single penny from any corporate PACs. I am running to represent our working families, not corporations and big campaign donors.”
Segal proposed a constitutional amendment to overturn the recent Citizens United decision that he said allows corporations to spend “unlimited money on elections.” He said he would push for the Fair Elections Now Act, which would provide public financing to candidates who qualify, and the Lobbyist Reform Act, which would require records of meetings between lobbyists and government officials.
“I understand voters’ cynicism and why they distrust what our politicians say. Americans know all too well the corrupting influence of money in politics,” Segal said. “Americans are too familiar with politicians saying one thing while taking money from corporations who have interests directly in conflict with what is best for the people.”
Reforming the process has been a major focus of the four Democratic candidates running for the First District seat in Congress. David Cicilline has called for a lifetime ban on ex-Congressmen serving as lobbyists. Bill Lynch has proposed 12-year term limits for members of Congress. And Anthony Gemma has emphasized getting constituents better connected with their government through the Internet and an iPhone app.
Related Articles
- Segal Brings Populist Energy, Progressive Ideas to Congressional Race
- Wrap-up of 1st Congressional Debate
- Will Rhode Island Lead a Revolt Against Special Interest Money in Congress?
- David Segal Announces Run for Congress
- Congressional Candidates Meet for First Debate
- Exclusive: Gemma’s Plan for Transforming Government
- Gemma Launches Special iPhone App for His Campaign
- Bill Lynch to Call for Term Limits
- Cicilline Kicks Off Campaign for Congress
- Will Term Limits Fix Congress?
Follow us on Facebook Twitter See It Read It Share It