Changes to my campaign

Today, I'm making a commitment.

It's no secret that the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United championed corporate PACs, lobbyists, and special interests. Making American voices simply an afterthought for many politicians.

Winning an election is an expensive undertaking. One that has begun to sideline emerging leaders in favor of the better-connected or the easily-bought.

We see this in the Republican majority's refusal to act on climate change or gun violence — their allegiance is to the corporations holding a check over their heads, not their constituents.

The new Democratic majority in the House has introduced a voting rights and campaign reform bill to suppress the influence of big money in politics and ensure public officials are working in the interest of their communities.

It will be a privilege to bring these items to the floor for debate as Chair of the House Rules Committee. But I can do more. Beyond supporting the legislation, I seek to lead by example. That means changing how I run my campaign.

I will no longer accept corporate PAC money for my campaign.

There are 48 other Congress members who have made the same commitment, including Elizabeth Warren, Ayanna Pressley, and Lori Trahan. "Industry experts" will certainly warn us, after all, "the first rule of running for office is that you don't leave money on the table." But we're turning the tables.

Today, I ask for your support. We must demonstrate that this is not only feasible, but better. If you're with us — chip in $3.

The grassroots movement at End Citizens United is working tirelessly to recruit politicians to choose accountability, transparency, and their communities over corporate PACs. Let's show them it can be done — chip in $3 today.

I trust that Americans prefer campaigns that are by the people, for the people.

Jim