New Mexico's governor vetoed a small donor matching program for state elections, claiming it was unconstitutional. But those concerns are unwarranted, and the U.S. Supreme Court has made clear these programs are wholly consistent with the First Amendment.
Although no system can stop individuals from behaving badly, public financing combined with strong enforcement, disclosure, and reasonable contribution limits can change Albany's "show me the money" culture.
For the government to work, we need competence and public trust. Nothing will restore public trust more than campaign finance reform. And a small donor matching system, like New York City's program, is critical.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo spoke to a group of business and civic leaders at a lunch event promoting small donor matching funds for New York elections. The following are remarks from the panel discussion on the role money plays in state politics.
We are thrilled that the governor has taken up the toughest challenge of all: meaningful campaign reform. We believe passionately: Small donor matching funds can give ordinary citizens the loudest voice even in the face of secret money and Super PACs.
