I have long observed an accelerating and destructive trend within our political system: an unhealthy dependence on fundraising for politicians to be elected and remain in office. Some must spend hours every day just to maintain relationships that make their campaign possible. This pressing issue diverts precious time from serving the public.  It also endangers the independence of our elected officials, and prevents unfettered innovation and collaboration across the isle. The ever-present threat of a politician being 'primaried' by a handful of unsatisfied individuals in the billionaire class undermines the very essence of democracy and works against the interests of the average citizen.

To address this, I propose three key reformations.

First, increase taxes on those in the top 0.01% income bracket by some percentage to establish a reasonably adequate campaign fund.  Importantly this tax revenue must be permanently earmarked for the campaign fund.  These funds must be distributed to candidates in a fair way to allow for consistent education of the public on the candidates views and intentions, fund debates and provide Q&A information.  The tax percentage could be 1% or more based on what would be needed.  The past 5-10 years of campaign contributions could be used to calculate an appropriate tax rate and fund target.   

Second, ban all donations from all organizations, and any group other than a single individual person.   This includes all PACs, Super-PACs, businesses of any kind, groups or organizations of any kind. This returns to similar intent as established by The Tillman Act of 1907, but goes further.  The highest priority intent with this is to remove the ability of high-powered individuals and/or groups from being able to have greater influence than someone not as financially fortunate but of equal worth.  Even a business that on its surface may present that it is representing it's full group of employees, could donate to a candidate that would be encouraged to support laws that harm the employees while benefitting the business.  During difficult times, it is often impossible for some or all of lower wage workers to save enough to move to other communities where wages and conditions are more fair, and this common condition should not be disregarded in campaign finance law nor judicial decisions.  The individual should have sole control over campaign donations meant to represent him/herself, and no one--regardless of relationship--should have a method to speak for them. 

Third, cap individual campaign contributions to any party or candidate at the equivalence to one month's salary of a minimum wage worker. This measure would foster a more fair and equitable system less susceptible to influence from those who may be less sincere but born into a more fortunate financial situation. 

Please join us in calling for a comprehensive overhaul of our campaign finance system, making it more inclusive, balanced, and focused on the needs of everyday citizens rather than our politicians being burdened by the shackles created by the billionaire class.

Sign the petition and help redirect the course of our democracy by establishing campaign finance rules that take the power away from the few who abuse it, and return it to the many who have earned the right to have  fair and equitable influence.