I took a vow to reject corporate PAC money in my campaign, and today I want to take a moment to explain why. Something that's been in the news recently serves as an example of what's at stake: the outrageous price of insulin.
Insulin costs pennies on the dollar to produce. It's been in use for almost 100 years. And the patent was sold for $1 in order to make it a drug every family could afford.
Yet even though there have been no significant changes to insulin, the price has continued to rise. Over 37 million Americans are diabetic. That's more than 1 in 10 Americans, which means this isn't some theoretical problem. Price gouging has caused enormous hardship for many American families and even led to self-rationing, sometimes with tragic results.
Last month the House took a huge step toward helping American families by voting to cap the monthly price of insulin at $35. The price cap is incredibly popular with Democrats and Republicans alike.
In short, it's the right thing to do. But let's be honest — it might not happen. This bill still needs to move through the Senate, where it will face fierce opposition. And there's one big reason why: drug companies control massive sums of special interest money. Elected officials will be forced to choose between the people they represent, and big money donors offering to bankroll campaigns.
Whether it's insulin, infrastructure, affordable health care, climate change, or common sense gun safety measures, you won't ever have to wonder where my commitments are on any issue.
Corporate PACs are going to push back against real progressive change, and that's exactly why we can't afford to send someone to Washington who is beholden to those big moneyed interests.
John, in all honesty, it's harder to run a campaign without corporate PAC dollars. But when I get to Congress, it will be clear why I'm there — I'll be there to serve the PEOPLE of New York's 1st District.
Kara Hahn is a lifelong Long Islander, social worker, county legislator, and candidate for Congress in NY-01. This open seat is a must win for Democrats to defend our majority in the House and continue driving progress in America, but we can't do it without your help. Make a recurring donation to sustain our movement for the long haul and send Kara to Congress!
