It's Sunshine Week, a time to promote transparency in government. Nonpartisan organizations, ranging from civic educators to media to the private sector, are sharing resources and information about the importance of access to public records — such as the campaign and lobbying data OpenSecrets has been studying for 40 years.

By Dave Levinthal

During his most recent campaign, Utah state Rep. Mike Petersen (R) spotted a $5,000 in-kind contribution from “All in for Utah” — an unfamiliar organization supporting his primary opponent with “creative production and digital ads.”

But when Petersen tried using his state’s campaign finance disclosure website to learn whether this entity had donated money to other Utah candidates, he discovered there was no way to simply type in the 501(c)(4) nonprofit group’s name — “All in for Utah” — and generate a list. 

Unable to find a better option, Petersen stayed up “half the night” manually scouring candidates’ campaign money disclosures to determine whether All in for Utah had contributed to them, he told OpenSecrets.

“It was really frustrating, and it’s unfair to voters,” Petersen said. (OpenSecrets operates a legacy site, Follow the Money, where that data can be found.)

So Petersen in January introduced legislation to improve the state’s campaign finance search capabilities — and the bill passed on a bipartisan basis with no controversy. It’s now awaiting the signature of Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R), whose own campaign received All in for Utah money. 

Petersen’s experience in advancing a bill affecting campaign finance laws, however, is far from the norm in 2025. To mark Sunshine Week,  OpenSecrets analyzed the meager progress of such bills across the country.

The Virginia General Assembly has seen the most success in terms of campaign finance bills passed so far this year, with lawmakers advancing five such measures to the desk of Gov. Glenn Younkin (R), who has until later this month to consider them. 

Among the Virginia bills: a measure banning personal use of campaign funds — a standard most other states and the federal government already have in place to some degree.

In South Dakota, Gov. Larry Rhoden (R) signed two campaign money bills into law — one limiting loans to political candidates and committees, and another clarifying when political committees must file public disclosures.

Arkansas lawmakers passed a bill that mostly clarifies existing law on campaign contribution limits, noting that “standardizing the laws related to campaign finance contributes significantly to the public peace, health and safety of the citizens of the State of Arkansas.” It’s now awaiting the signature of Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R).

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the OpenSecrets Merch Store! Now, you can support our mission while looking good doing it. Every purchase helps us provide comprehensive and reliable data, analysis and tools for policymakers, storytellers and citizens. 

Our collection — initially featuring a hoodie, crewneck, t-shirt and hat — is designed to spread awareness and make a difference. Whether you're treating yourself or finding the perfect gift, every item you buy helps fuel our cause. And every item in our store was manufactured by a certified ethical and “sweat-free” company.

Join us in wearing your support —  transparency has never been more comfortable!

We’re excited to announce our participation in the 2025 American Democracy Summit — one of the premier gatherings of pro-democracy leaders and changemakers in the country. This year’s theme, "We The Future," is about coming together to build a stronger, more accountable government that truly represents all Americans — a theme that aligns perfectly with the OpenSecrets mission. 

The American Democracy Summit will take place near Phoenix, Arizona, May 14-16, 2025.

Learn all about the summit’s innovative programming and world-class speakers here. And use code OPENSECRETS to get 10% off your ticket. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

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