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.
After a corruption scandal rocked New York City, Mayor Ed Koch helped develop a new campaign finance system using public matching grants. With many voters lacking faith in Albany due to the power of big money, we need a similar system statewide.
Brennan Center counsel David Earley testified before the Seattle City Council, encouraging the city to adopt a small donor matching fund program modeled on New York City's public campaign financing system.
The Brennan Center works tirelessly to advance vital, national election reforms that protect and enhance our democratic system by expanding voter participation and curbing the influence of money in politics.
