[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 74 (Wednesday, June 14, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1014]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    CITIZENS DESERVE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT 527 CAMPAIGN ATTACK ADS

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                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 14, 2000

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, today, I am proud to join many of my 
Democratic colleagues in signing a discharge petition to bring 
legislation to the floor of the House of Representatives to require 
full disclosure of so-called 527 ads--the political attack ads that are 
becoming a disturbing way of life in politics today. These ads are the 
latest scheme to get around campaign finance laws. The undermine our 
democracy.
  I speak from experience about 527's. As a freshman Member of 
Congress, I have had these anonymous attack ads running in my central 
New jersey district--both against me and against the loser of the 
primary election in my district.
  527 ads are the political equivalent of a drive-by shooting. They are 
deceptive--they are anonymous--and they keep citizens in the dark about 
who is trying to influence their elections.
  Citizens deserve the right to know who is contributing money to 
elections. Full disclosure allows citizens to make more informed 
judgments about issues and elections.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in signing the discharge petition.

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