Speaking Up for Fair Elections

Dan Newman, executive director of RBF grantee MAPLight, responds to the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission landmark decision passed on January 21 by the U.S. Supreme Court in The Sacramento Bee. Newman cautions that an "escalating arms race" will occur if interest groups are allowed to buy votes. However, Newman maintains there is hope. Seven states, including Connecticut, allow candidates to successfully run for office and win without accepting funds from private interest groups.

Research conducted by MAPLight, a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to illuminating the link between campaign donations and legislative votes, has continually shown that policymakers' votes align with the interest groups that fund their campaigns—from blocking prescription drug imports to other countries, to the financial bailout for banks and security firms.