In modern elections, it's no secret that the wealthy use their money to amplify their own politics and influence the results far more than their single vote ever could. But the fundamental principle of our democracy is that all citizens should have an equal say in who represents us. The overwhelming presence of big money in even our local elections makes this impossible.

If we wish to protect the future of our country, we must institute campaign finance reform, starting in our own communities. Our first campaign is to get campaign finance reform enacted in Evanston, Illinois.

Under our proposed Democracy Dollars voucher system of campaign finance reform, the City of Evanston would give every eligible voter in Evanston an equal amount of money to donate to the political candidate or candidates of their choice. As a result, power would be returned to ordinary citizens. It will be easier for community members to support the candidates who can best represent them, and it makes it easier for people to run for office. Elections will be less expensive and more democratic, and our elected officials will be more responsive to all of their constituents, not just the wealthiest.

It is time for change in Evanston. It’s time for elected officials to represent the community and for everyone to have an equal say in who those representatives are. It’s time to tell the wealthy that their values are not more important than our own. By adopting a Democracy Dollars program, we can create lasting change in Evanston while serving as a model of good governance for Chicago, Illinois, and the entire country.

Please sign this petition to let the Evanston City Government know that you support a Democracy Dollars program!