Citizen Action of New York and Gov. Eliot Spitzer are working on legislation that would bring Clean Elections--or publicly financed elections--to judicial races in New York state. Once the bill is introduced in the legislature, we'll need your help to make sure it passes.

Here are three things you can do:

Email your representatives in Albany today and tell them to support Clean Elections! [2]

Make a donation today to support our work in New York and across the country. [3]

[4]Tell your friends and family [5] to support Clean Elections in New York. [6]

Clean Elections--or publicly financed elections--is a practical, common sense reform that puts voters ahead of the influence of special interests and well heeled donors. After showing broad community support by collecting a set number of small contributions--usually $5--candidates are able to receive public funds to run their race. After qualifying, candidates must agree to take no private money and adhere to strict spending limits. If a publicly financed candidate faces a privately financed opponent, matching rescue funds are available to ensure a level playing field.

In New York, legislation is being proposed that would allow candidates running for judgeships to receive public funds to run their campaigns.

The judicial system exists so those appearing before the court are able to receive a fair and impartial hearing, with decisions being decided based solely on the evidence and the law. While a judge who actually makes a decision based on campaign contributors’ interests is rare, the appearance of influence damages the health of the judiciary. However, with millions of dollars flowing into judicial races—and those giving money often appearing in front of these judges—one begins to wonder about the independence of an elected judiciary.

Below are links to more information about Clean Elections:

• Vist the Public Campaign New York State page [7].
  
• Learn more [8] about Clean Elections from Public Campaign.
• Read [8] the Public Campaign Action Fund blog.
• Visit Citizen Action of New York [9] to find out how you can help.