SIGN NOW: We must put an end to Big Money’s grip on our democracy >>

John, Senate Republicans just chose Senator John Thune to lead them next Congress. And much like his predecessor, Senator Mitch McConnell, one main “qualification” for the job comes at all of our expense: raking in millions of dollars in Big Money donations.

That’s right: the incoming Senate Majority Leader built his candidacy around raising $31 million for the GOP this cycle and setting a new record for the largest transfer of money from his personal campaign to other Senate Republicans. [1]

But Thune hardly stands out – in order to be serious contenders, Thune and the other Senators running had to prove they could keep the campaign cash flowing from the fossil fuel industry, big banks, private health insurers, and other special interests:

A primary selling point for Senator John Cornyn was raising over $400 million for the GOP in his career, including $33 million this cycle. [1]

And Senator Rick Scott, who’s also independently rich after co-founding the nation's largest for-profit healthcare company, is a leading advocate for essentially ending Medicare and the Affordable Care Act – hardly a coincidence. [2]

They have big shoes to fill, as Senator Mitch McConnell raised over $1 billion for the GOP during his time as Senate Majority Leader and Minority Leader. [3]

The unfortunate truth is that no matter who got selected, Big Money is the real winner – which means the rest of us lose. Wealthy special interests shouldn’t have this big of a say in our democracy; that power belongs to the people.

Sign the petition: We must get Big Money out of politics by overturning Citizens United and giving power back to everyday Americans.

SIGN THE PETITION

This problem is bigger than one leadership race, and it’s not just a Republican problem either; 2024 was the most expensive election cycle in American history, with spending topping $20 billion – including $1 billion of completely anonymous dark money. [4]

It’s just the latest example of how disastrous the Citizens United decision has been for our democracy.

Let’s face it, as long as we let the wealthy and powerful buy access to politicians, they’ll keep drowning out the voices of everyday Americans. We all suffer when ultra-wealthy megadonors use their influence to block action on issues like healthcare and the minimum wage, and arrange even more tax giveaways for the ultra-rich. 

Common Cause knows this status quo must end – which is why we’re fighting to overturn Citizens United and pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the DISCLOSE Act.

These critical measures would help shine a light on secret political spending, get Big Money out of politics, and establish small-dollar citizen funded elections – giving ordinary Americans a stronger say in our democracy.

John, if you believe, as I do, that our government should be of, by, and for the people, now is the time to act. Add your name to get Big Money out of politics >>

Thanks for all you do,

Aaron Scherb, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs
and the team at Common Cause

[1] https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/4980346-john-cornyn-senate-gop-fundraising/
[2] https://www.reuters.com/world/us/republican-rick-scott-banks-trump-ties-his-bid-lead-senate-2024-11-13/
[3] https://www.opensecrets.org/news/2024/04/top-fundraisers-vie-to-succeed-mcconnell-as-senate-gop-leader/
[4] https://www.opensecrets.org/news/2024/11/big-money-big-stakes-5-things-everyone-should-know-about-money-in-2024-election/