Another big day for Fair Elections in Congress.  This morning Rep. John Larson (D-CT), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and Rep. Walter Jones Jr. (R-NC) introduced the House version of the Fair Elections Now Act (HB 7022).  This bill is the counterpart to the Fair Elections Now Act (2 1285) introduced in the Senate by Sens. Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Arlen Specter (R-PA).  This bicameral, bipartisan coalition in support of full public financing for congressional races represents a big step forward for our efforts.

We've had bills introduced in the past that would have brought public financing to Congress, but never have we had this united, bipartisan effort that would establish the gold-standard Fair and Clean Elections programs that have been successful in seven states and two cities in Congress.  The bill text is not yet available online but as soon as it is we'll provide links for you. Right now you can sign on as a citizen co-sponsor of this bill right here.

As Congress debates a mammoth Wall Street bailout to the tune of $700 billion it is more essential than ever that we work to reduce the influence of wealthy special interests (*cough* investment firms, banks *cough*) and their big campaign contributions and work to get our candidates, and our elections, back to focusing on the voters.  The Fair Elections Now Act would give candidates for Congress a chance to step off the fundraising treadmill and approach policy deliberations without worrying about doing favors for their biggest donors. 

Hats off to Reps. Larson and Jones for joining the fight for Fair Elections!