[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 5 (Tuesday, February 3, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E79-E80]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON KIND

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 3, 1998

  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, as we return for the beginning of the 1998 
legislative session I want to renew my call for action this year on 
campaign finance reform. Last year, I submitted a daily statement for 
the official Record calling on you to allow a vote on campaign finance 
reform. Unfortunately, we were not allowed an opportunity to vote on 
this important issue. I hope that 1998 will be the year we finally 
respond to the demands of the public, who overwhelmingly want us to fix 
the current campaign funding system.
  In the U.S. Senate, Senator Lott has promised a vote on this issue 
before March 5. I applaud his commitment to allowing a vote. I hope 
that the leadership in the House will also commit to a date certain. 
Until then, I will continue my practice of submitting a daily statement 
to remind the congressional leadership and the public that we have not 
passed campaign finance reform.
  Mr. Speaker, the problem is clear, there is too much money involved 
in the election campaigns. The influence of money has created the 
appearance of special interest influence in the democratic process. The 
voters no longer believe they have a voice in the system. We will not 
be able to turn around public opinion,

[[Page E80]]

and therefore restore the public's confidence in our democracy, until 
we pass a meaningful campaign finance reform bill.
  I urge you to schedule a vote on campaign finance reform on the floor 
of the House of Representatives. We must act soon. The people of 
western Wisconsin have told me to continue the fight until you agree to 
allow a vote. The people will not take ``no'' for an answer.

                          ____________________