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Getting Big Money Out of Politics

We all deserve an equal voice in our government. But today, that voice is being drowned out. Court rulings like Citizens United have allowed corporations, billionaires, and powerful special interests to pour unlimited money into our elections, buying influence, distorting priorities, and weakening our democracy.

That’s why I’ve pledged never to accept corporate PAC contributions. I believe that elected officials should answer to the people, not to corporations, lobbyists, or dark money groups. California’s First Congressional District deserves a representative who fights for North State communities, not for wealthy donors.

Money in Politics

Priorities

  • Reject corporate PAC money and support candidates who do the same, because accountability begins with integrity.
  • Work toward a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and restore the ability of Congress and states to enforce reasonable campaign finance limits.
  • Promote transparency by requiring corporations, PACs, and outside groups to disclose political spending and donations.
  • Explore pilot programs for public campaign financing, including innovative models like Seattle’s Democracy Vouchers.
  • Support federal legislation that offers incentives to candidates who rely on small-dollar donations, including:
    • Broadcast and mailer vouchers
    • Matching funds for grassroots donations
    • Tax credits for small-dollar donors to encourage civic participation

Why it Matters

Representative democracy only works if everyone has a voice, not just those who can afford to buy one.

In the wake of Citizens United, political spending by outside groups has exploded. Super PACs and dark money organizations can now spend unlimited amounts to influence elections, often without voters knowing where the money comes from. This distorts our democracy and makes it harder for everyday Americans to be heard.

In CA-01, we’ve seen how entrenched interests protect the status quo while our communities go unheard. The people of the North State deserve a government that’s responsive to us, not to the highest bidder.

What I Believe

We must fundamentally reform the way campaigns are financed and restore power to the people. That starts with accountability and transparency, but it also means creating a system where grassroots candidates can compete without selling out to wealthy special interests.

A functioning democracy requires that voters trust their representatives to work for them. That trust has been eroded by decades of corporate influence and political polarization. It’s time to rebuild it.

How I'll Lead

I will support, co-sponsor, and advocate for campaign finance reform at every level. That includes:

  • Rejecting corporate PAC dollars and calling on others to do the same,
  • Fighting for a constitutional amendment to allow reasonable campaign limits,
  • Expanding public financing options to empower small-dollar donors,
  • And championing legislation that brings transparency, fairness, and integrity back to the electoral process.

We’re at a crossroads. We can let special interests continue to divide and distract us, or we can come together and reclaim our democracy. I believe this district is ready to choose the latter. Let’s do it together.

Proven Leadership in Times of Crisis