Money in politics

There’s no denying the fact that Congress is broken

Our politics are in serious need of repair. And, the single most important impediment to meaningful progress at the federal level—money in politics.

We have legalized corruption in our country through our laws and through our acceptance of a campaign finance system and general culture that requires — and even rewards — the relentless pursuit of money. Most members of Congress spend between 20 and 30 hours per week dialing for dollars. Collectively, that equates to 10,000 to 15,000 hours per week spent raising money, even when Congress is in session.

What does this mean?

Members of Congress have virtually no time to interact with each other, let alone the people they represent — especially those of modest means
This limited interaction contributes to the hyper-partisanship that is driving the dysfunction in Congress and deepening the divisions in our country
Ultimately, more people are disengaging from the political process as a result

Money in politics is a serious—and possibly existential—challenge to our democracy.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that it’s not too late to fix it.

Together, we can reduce the influence of money in politics

I am doing what I can to lead the charge for reform on the inside. I’ve proposed legislation that would:

Require stricter disclosure requirements and creating a public financing system that would empower small donors like you
Slow the revolving door between government and lobbying and enhancing the disclosure rules that govern members of Congress as well as lobbyists

How can you help?

Question candidates about their positions on campaign finance reform
Volunteer and donate to candidates who are committed to removing the corrupting influence of money on our politics
Vote for candidates who are willing to join us in this fight

Even if campaign finance reform is not your top priority in the upcoming election, I encourage you to make it your number two issue. Chances are, nothing meaningful will happen on the issue you care most about without making real progress on campaign finance and ethics reform.

Dean listening to women — Dean listens to a group of women at a campaign event.

Let’s create change—together.

Join the DeanTeam—a diverse, committed team of neighbors who are creating change in communities across Minnesota’s Third District.

Whether you’d like to volunteer at an upcoming campaign event or lend a hand from home, there are always opportunities to make a meaningful difference.

Money in politics

There’s no denying the fact that Congress is broken