[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14278]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


              INTRODUCTION OF THE GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOHN P. SARBANES

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 14, 2012

  Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation that 
will build a new paradigm for the financing of congressional campaigns. 
The Grassroots Democracy Act is a package of reforms designed to combat 
the influence of concentrated money in politics, raise civic 
engagement, and to amplify the voice of everyday Americans in our 
nation's electoral process. Through a three-pronged, comprehensive 
approach, we can ensure Americans' voices are heard over the din of big 
money that has dominated our politics and our public policy for too 
long.
  First, the legislation provides Americans with a $50 refundable tax 
credit/coupon to contribute to their preferred candidates for 
congressional office. With average Americans newly empowered to 
participate in campaign giving, candidates will have more incentive to 
re-engage with everyday voters rather than spending disproportionate 
amounts of time fundraising from moneyed interests.
  Next, the legislation multiplies the impact of grassroots donations 
($100 or less). For candidates who forego PAC money and are willing and 
able to earn broad-based support from grassroots donors in their 
district or state, a public match will be available on grassroots 
donations. Suddenly, the $50 contribution can become a $300 
contribution--matched at a rate of $5 to $1. For those candidates who 
agree to take only grassroots donations, the $50 contribution can 
become a $550 contribution--matched at a rate of $10 to $1. By 
democratizing the donor base and amplifying the impact of grassroots 
contributions, participating candidates will be able to run a viable, 
competitive campaign, while staying connected to the needs of the 
constituents they represent.
  Lastly, the legislation prevents super PACs and other big money 
organizations--the products of the Citizens United and other recent 
court rulings--from drowning out the voice of the people. In elections 
where outside spending significantly outpaces national norms, 
grassroots supported candidates will have access to a People's Fund--to 
make sure their voice can still be heard. Once total non-candidate 
spending reaches a certain decibel level, grassroots supported 
candidates will have the opportunity to apply for an additional 1:1 
match on their grassroots base, providing the immediate, supplemental 
support necessary to ensure the marketplace of ideas remains 
competitive.
  Capitol Hill is full of well-intentioned people who came to 
Washington with noble goals and deeply held principles. Most ran for 
Congress out of a strong desire to serve their community and the 
broader American public. The problem is the moment they decide to run 
for office they become distracted--distracted by the endless need for 
more money to win the election.
  The Grassroots Democracy Act represents a path forward. Together, 
these reforms provide can begin to combat the influence of concentrated 
money in politics, raise civic engagement, and amplify the political 
voice of the American electorate. A new paradigm of financing campaigns 
will liberate candidates from dependence on special interests and big 
money, ensuring our public policy is truly fashioned in the interest of 
the public.

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