Clean Elections/Campaign Finance Reform by Sura, January 30

On Feb 1, we should have access to all candidates’ Campaign Finance Reports. We’ll have another opportunity on Feb. 12 to see how much money was raised, and where it was spent.

Because I began my campaign for office before Mike D’Amato stepped down, I’ve thought a lot about campaign money. At the last report, he had close to $150K in his campaign chest.

At that time, I had people tell me either that I couldn’t win against an incumbent (based on my time at the doors, I think that was far from true, and people’s votes count more than money) or that I needed to raise $75,000 to beat him (money shows how strong you are. Money allows you to do massive mailings).

I don’t believe that.

I’ve raised my fair share of money, from $1 through the maximum individual donation of $417. But I’m also concerned about our local political climate. Something’s very wrong when we allow money to dictate representation.

I think we need clean and fair elections and meaningful campaign finance reform. I think a limit on how much can be raised, not from any given individual, but in total donations, would force candidates to actually go out and meet people, not just court the people with money. Or better yet, a limit on how much can be spent, so that independently wealthy candidates can’t buy their way in.

After all, this is about public service, right?

I hope all the other candidates agree with me on this.

But until there are clean elections, take heed and follow the money.

30 Jan 2008 | 10:54 am | Representation, 3rd District

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