True reform for New York State Elections:
As the New York State Senate discusses campaign finance today, I'm proud to say that New York City's campaign finance system is a model for the nation. By matching small donations 6-1, the City encourages small donors to get involved. In 2009, the majority of contributions in NYC elections were from first-time donors, with more than 80 percent of donors giving < $175.
NYC's system also keeps big money out of politics. In 2009, only 7 percent of donations to eligible candidates in city races came from organizations—including political action committees, businesses, and unions. In comparison, in 2010 state elections, 65 percent of donations came from organizations.
That's why I support a state campaign finance system modeled on the City system so that everyone in the Empire State has access to Fair Elections.