    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book I)]
    [March 25, 1997]
    [Pages 349-350]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Campaign Finance Reform Legislation
    March 25, 1997

        In my State of the Union Address, I challenged Congress to pass
    bipartisan campaign finance reform by July 4th, the date we celebrate
    the birth of our democracy. The only way that political reform will
    become law is if citizens raise their voices to demand change. I
    strongly support the bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators John
    McCain and Russ Feingold, and Representatives Chris Shays and Marty
    Meehan. It is real, it is fair, it is tough, and it will curb the role
    of big money in our politics.
        We know the pressing need for reform. The campaign finance laws are
    two decades out of date and have been overwhelmed by a flood of money
    that rises with every election. Above all, campaign finance reform will
    help us to meet our Nation's fundamental challenges. It will help us
    balance the budget, fight crime, extend health care to our children,
    protect our young people from the dangers of tobacco. Reform will help
    make sure that our political system stands for ordinary Americans and
    helps them in their daily lives.
        At Faneuil Hall, the ``Cradle of Liberty,'' and at Independence
    Hall, our Founders forged our democracy. Now it is up to all of us, in a
    new time, to renew that democracy and to make sure that our Government
    represents the national interest, not just narrow interests. I thank
    those who are fighting for reform and who are gathered at Faneuil Hall
    for their leadership and urge all citizens to join in this effort. This

    [[Page 350]]

    year can be the year that we finally pass campaign finance reform.

    Note: This statement was read at the Project Independence rally for
    campaign finance reform at Faneuil Hall in Boston, MA.