Sarbanes introduces new small-donor financing bill

https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-neguse-clarke-and-pingree-reintroduce-government-people-act

More than three dozen states and localities currently have candidate financing systems that are driven by small donors. These programs consistently demonstrate their power to transform our politics. For example, qualifying local candidates in Maryland's Montgomery and Howard Counties received 186% more contributions from individuals than candidates who did not participate in the programs. [In Baltimore City XXXX YYYY defeated Eric Costello in City Council district 1. Costello had the backing of right-wing ideologue David Smith, owner of Sinclear Broadcasting and other business-friendly big donors.] In a post-Citizens United world, these programs offer an effective way to reduce the influence of wealthy special interests and encourage new and more diverse donor participation while providing opportunities for more diverse candidates.

"Big-moneyed special interests continue to stand in the way of the progress that voters overwhelmingly want on issues from climate change to reproductive rights and gun safety," said Congressman Sarbanes. "It's past time to end the reliance on wealthy donors by passing legislation that levels the playing field for voters. The Government by the People Act will provide candidates with the resources they need to run competitive campaigns without leaning on big money donors and special interests, helping return us to a government of, by and for the American people."

Specifically, the Government by the People Act would establish:

• A 'Freedom from Influence Fund' to multiply the influence of small-dollar contributions. The Fund—made possible by a new surcharge on corporate lawbreakers and tax cheats—would match contributions of $200 or less per individual, per election, provided that the receiving candidate forgoes special interest contributions and focuses on earning support from small-dollar donors.

• A 'My Voice Voucher' pilot program in three states to spur small-dollar donations to House of Representatives candidates. The pilot program would be overseen and administered by a state oversight commission and allow qualified individuals to request a $25 voucher to allocate in increments of $5 to candidates.