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Our democracy works best when elected officials answer to their constituents and not wealthy special interests. Super PACs are permitted to raise and spend unlimited amounts on elections from a variety of sources — but only if they do so independently. They are prohibited from coordinating with campaigns on their messaging. When a campaign engages in the practice known as “redboxing,” they are openly flouting this ban.
A candidate practices redboxing when they provide messaging and visual products (such as photos and video of the candidate) on their website and use signals that are known to super PACs but might seem innocent to the untrained eye. Sometimes a literal red box, sometimes specific phrasing, these signals tell super PACs what the candidate would like an outside group supporting them to show or say to promote their campaign.
When a candidate can direct the activities of a super PAC that is able to raise amounts far exceeding the candidate’s contribution limits and funds from sources the candidate cannot access, the risk for corruption is clear. This coordination facilitates a "pay-to-play" political culture, where super PAC donors and operatives can trade dollars for favors and access, undermining voters’ trust that our government will respond to their concerns and protect their interests.
On February 17, 2023, join us for a conversation about redboxing, how it undermines the integrity of our elections and how cities like Philadelphia are regulating it. Our virtual event features campaign finance and democracy experts Saurav Ghosh of Campaign Legal Center, Jordana L. Greenwald of the Philadelphia Board of Ethics and John Marion of Common Cause Rhode Island. CLC's Aaron McKean will moderate.
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