Public Funding: What It Is

Simply stated, voluntary public funding means that the federal government provides all candidates who qualify for federal office--president, vice-president, senate and house--with adequate funds to run a credible campaign for election. These funds will come out of the federal budget whether from the general fund or from revenue raised specifically to support public funding. Qualified candidates will no longer have to rely on private contributions from big donors to run a successful campaign. Public funding will truly restore the integrity and vitality of our democracy by eliminating the profound influence of wealthy special interests on our national priorities.

What's more, because those in office won't have to spend valuable time raising money for their next election, our leaders will spend more time working for us.

Current Public Funding Legislation in Congress

You may also like to read our policy paper, "Does Money Buy Elections?", below.

To view a full screen version click here or download the full PDF.