I write this petition not just as an individual, but as one of many citizens deeply worried about the integrity of our democracy. Since the Supreme Court ruling on Citizens United v FEC, an overwhelming tide of money, including dark money, has flooded our elections. Our voices, the voices of voters, now seem like a whisper lost in a sea of amplified interests.

Our government, whose sole mandate is to represent us, the people, should be rooted in the ideals and plans we deem important, and the direction we choose for our nation. But today, we notice a shift. Elections are being tipped in favor of entities seeking to further their interests, not ours, not the country's.

As such, we demand immediate action to require full transparency in all campaign donations made to candidates, political action committees, or any other entity receiving funds for the benefit of any candidate. We firmly believe transparency is not just a wish but a necessity. It is an essential step toward restoring trust in our political processes and elected officials.

According to a 2018 Gallup poll, only 19% of Americans said they trust the government in Washington to do what's right always or most of the time (Jones, 2018). We cannot permit this distrust to fester. “Campaign spending by corporations and other outside groups increased by nearly 900% between 2008 and 2016. In 2020, total election spending was $14.4 billion, up from $5.7 billion in 2018, and more than $1 billion in dark money was spent” (Lyons, 2024). Our democracy thrives not on opaque donations but on honest discussions, informed decisions, and, above all, the will of its people. 

In the spirit of transparency, fairness, and democracy, we implore officials to take immediate action and safeguard our elections from the influence of unchecked funds. Please sign this petition and together, let's bring our voices back into our democracy.