The Problem
The impact of money on politics is out of control. The high cost of running for office means that only the wealthiest among us, or those willing to take money from special 
interests, can afford to campaign. This threatens the idea that our government is a representative democracy where the interest of the people comes first. The notion that our government is for sale has become so pervasive that even the most civic-minded, effective public servants are constantly being questioned about how they finance their campaigns.
The Solution
Voter-owned elections (sometimes referred to as publicly financed campaigns or "clean" elections) offer candidates who reject the special interest money chase 
another way to run for office. By raising small-dollar contributions from registered voters, candidates prove their viability.
After a candidate achieves a predetermined threshold of support, he or she agrees to stop fund raising and finances the campaign entirely through public funds, instead of special interest cash. No more phone calls to wealthy donors and special interests means more time contacting voters and talking about issues. This program, which is used from Maine to Arizona, was adopted for all North Carolina appellate court races in 2002.
Currently there are bills before the state legislature to build on the success of North Carolina's voter-owned judicial elections. The measures would extend voter-owned elections to some members of the Council of State, as well as a pilot project for the General Assembly.
Want to Learn More?
Visit the N.C. Voters for Clean Elections coalition to learn more about voter-owned elections.
The coalition is a nonpartisan organization that advocates for voter-owned elections and campaign reform.
TV PSAs for Voter-Owned Elections
The next generation of leaders is out there. The question is, who will they listen to - the people or the big donors?
Radio PSA: 'The Payoff'
You can't give money to an umpire to influence a call, but in North Carolina today special interests can give thousands of dollars to the campaigns of state officials who are supposed to regulate them. It's legal, but is it right?
Podcast: Campaign Donors for Campaign Reform
When prominent campaign donors call for campaign finance reform, is it time for lawmakers to pay attention?
Column: Make the Call for Better Elections
Why is it that while we reject even the hint of something unfair in sports officiating, we tolerate so much more when it comes to those who are supposed to officiate over our government?
© Copyright 2008 N.C. Center for Voter Education
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